All Whites, All Right

Players that have played together their whole lives

New Zealand's squad may not have many big names (aside from the mighty Chris Wood) but many of the squad members grew up playing together. Notably, Dalton Wilkins (Sønderjyske), Callum McCowatt (Silkeborg), Elijah Just (Motherwell), Marko Stamenic (Swansea), Matthew Garbett (Peterborough), and Owen Parker-Price (Örgryte) all played together at Ole Football Academy in the same age-group.

Recent results

A recent 4-1 win over Chile (FIFA World Ranking of 54) as well as a 1-1 tie against Norway (31st), a 1-0 win over Ivory Coast (34th), and a 1-0 loss to Poland (35th) in 2025 are results that show this squad has the quality to compete at the highest level.

Favourable schedule

Iran (21st), Egypt (29th) and Belgium (9th) await the All Whites in Group G. Securing one win or getting a repeat of the 2010 World Cup's three draws are a realistic possibility, especially considering the last of the three matches NZ will play is going to be against a Belgium side that has quite likely already qualified for the knockout phase. There are also major question marks surrounding Iran's participation for New Zealand's opening match in California.

With no expectations on a squad that will be playing three of the biggest games of their lives, I expect an upset or several draws which can be enough for NZ to make it out of Group G. Bet365 is also paying 8.00 for Belgium to finish 1st and New Zealand 2nd - a bet I'll also have a few kronor on.