Mali qualified after drawing 1-1 with Uruguay in their Group D final match.
Both Uruguay and Mali had ended up with identical points and goals tally in the group, behind group leader Serbia. A drawing of lot in Auckland much later, placed Uruguay second in the group and Mali third.
Serbia led the group, beating Mexico 2-0 win. The Mexicans would now go back home.
Portugal won Group C after maintaining their 100 per cent record to seal their place in the Round of 16.
Colombia also advanced to the knockout rounds as group runners-up behind Portugal on an emotionally-charged day filled with hope, worry and despair.
Today’s results also mean that hosts New Zealand remain in the tournament as one of the four best third-placed finishers, as both Argentina and debutants Senegal have worse records.
All is not yet lost for Senegal, however, as they could still book a ticket to the last 16 if results go their way in the final round of matches in Groups E and F on Sunday.
Nigeria’s Flying Eagles in group E will be playing their final match against Hungary. It is a match that Nigeria must win to ensure automatic qualification.
Nigeria are third in the group, behind Brazil and Hungary. Hungary share same points with Nigeria, but they maintain a goal advantage.
Order of Play:
Group E
Brazil – Korea DPR (17.00, Christchurch)
Hungary – Nigeria (17.00, New Plymouth)
Group F
Honduras – Germany (14.00, Christchurch)
Fiji – Uzbekistan (14.00, Whangarei)