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For the first time since 1982, New Zealand had the chance to make it through to the biggest sporting event in the world, the Football World Cup.
Standing in their way was Bahrain, looking to become the smallest country ever to reach the finals. In this home and away series, the All Whites travelled to Bahrain to eke out a 0–0 draw in the first match, mainly thanks to Bahrain's inability to score goals despite a rash of opportunities.
The permutations, due to the 0–0 draw in the first match, the away goals rule and the raw Wellington weather, made for a fascinating match: if New Zealand won, we were through; if Bahrain scored a goal and drew or won, that's it, they were through; a nil-all draw got us to extra time and penalties.
In the end, a powerful header by All Whites striker Rory Fallon just before half time made it academic. Although it did take a miraculous penalty save from 'keeper Mark Paston to keep Bahrain scoreless.
New Zealand's 1–0 victory means they will travel to South Africa in 2010, and Bahrain will travel back home wondering what might have been.