All Whites Set to Face England in Pre-World Cup Showdown

The All Whites will compete against England in a crucial friendly match on June 6, 2023, marking their final preparation before the FIFA World Cup. The match is scheduled to take place in Florida, with reports indicating that Tampa may host the encounter. This game is significant for the All Whites as they gear up for their opening match against Iran on June 15, 2023, in Los Angeles.

England, currently ranked fourth in the world, will present a formidable challenge for the All Whites, who hold the 85th position. This encounter will be the highest-ranked opponent the New Zealand team has faced since their loss to world number one Spain, which ended 5-0 during the 2009 FIFA Confederations Cup.

All Whites coach Darren Bazeley expressed enthusiasm about the matchup, stating, “Our strategy over the last year has been to take on top-ranked sides to ensure we are in the best place to perform at the tournament, and this match gives us a final opportunity to really test ourselves against one of the favourites.” He acknowledged England’s strength, highlighting that the team’s exposure to high-level competition is crucial for their development.

Historically, the All Whites have faced England twice before, both matches occurring during England’s tour of New Zealand in 1991. The visitors secured victories in both encounters, winning 1-0 in Auckland and 2-0 in Wellington.

Several key players for the All Whites, including captain Chris Wood, along with potential World Cup starters Matt Garbett, Tyler Bindon, and Max Crocombe, play in England’s domestic leagues. Additionally, Marko Stamenić and vice-captain Liberato Cacace are active in Welsh clubs competing in the English Championship.

The importance of this friendly is underscored by England’s current position as one of the top contenders for the World Cup, with odds listed at $6.50 by the TAB, making them second behind Spain at $5. Other teams with single-digit odds include France, Argentina, and Brazil. In contrast, the All Whites find themselves among a group of ten teams, listed at $501, alongside Australia and Iran.

New Zealand Football is reportedly considering the possibility of playing another match in North America before the World Cup. There are discussions about a potential fixture against Haiti on June 2, 2023. However, plans remain fluid as the organization continues to finalize logistics. Clubs are required to release their players by May 25, 2023, following the conclusion of domestic leagues in England and Australia. Bazeley plans to have his squad enter training camp shortly thereafter.

The All Whites will return to action in Auckland at the end of March, facing Finland and Chile. Captain Chris Wood is expected to miss these matches as he continues his recovery from knee surgery performed just before Christmas. The squad for these upcoming friendlies will be announced around March 10, 2023.

The All Whites’ match schedule leading up to the World Cup includes:

Friendlies:
March 27, 19:00: vs. Finland; Eden Park, Auckland
March 30, 19:00: vs. Chile; Eden Park
June 7, TBC: vs. England; TBC

World Cup Fixtures:
June 16, 13:00: vs. Iran; SoFi Stadium, Los Angeles
June 22, 13:00: vs. Egypt; BC Place, Vancouver
June 27, 15:00: vs. Belgium; BC Place

This series of matches will be vital for the All Whites as they look to build momentum and confidence heading into one of the most prestigious tournaments in global football.