Asian and Caribbean upsets, tight battles in South America and a first-ever win for American Samoa were among the latest qualifying tales as the race for Brazil 2014 heated up.
A tight and gripping opening to Oceania’s Brazil 2014 qualifiers saw Samoa trump three Polynesian neighbours to advance, but the tournament will long be remembered for the breakthrough achievements of American Samoa.
Samoa have won through to Oceania’s Round Two stage of Brazil 2014 qualifying but it took a last gasp winner to finally subdue a gallant American Samoa.
The opening stage of Oceania’s Brazil 2014 qualifiers will be decided on the final matchday after Tonga held hosts Samoa, leaving surprise packets American Samoa with a chance of progressing.
Samoa have secured three crucial points thanks to a winner deep into injury time against Cook Islands on the opening day of Oceania qualifying for Brazil 2014.
Apia may be far removed from the bright lights of world football’s elite, but this week the Samoan capital will be the venue as Oceania becomes the fifth continent to begin its Brazil 2014 journey
