The All Whites go into their OFC Nations Cup game against hosts Vanuatu expecting a partisan home crowd willing their side to beat the tournament favourites.
In a pre-game media briefing, New Zealand assistant coach Tony Readings said: “The crowd’s amazing here. Loud, very patriotic. They want their team to win and we know that’s going to be a big factor in the game.
“We’re going to come up against 11 players on the pitch but I think when we talk about 12th man, I think it is a reality here in here in Vanuatu.”
Readings said New Zealand go into Friday’s game with a full squad available, and with the aim of delivering the best possible performance.
Defender Liberato Cacace is available for selection after missing the first game at the tournament through suspension.
“We’ll obviously be happy to take the win. Whether it’s early goals or a goal in the last minute, we’ll be happy in this game,” Reading said.
Main photo: The All Whites stretch before their training session ahead of Friday’s match against Vanuatu. Photo credit: NZ Football.
While New Zealand have already secured a semi-final spot at the tournament, finishing first or second in their group will determine who they meet in the last four.
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Fixture
Game to be played on Friday June 21, 2024
New Zealand v Vanuatu
VFF Fresh Water Stadium, Port Vila, 4pm (NZT)
Pool B fixtures
Games to be played on Saturday June 22, 2024
Samoa v Papua New Guinea
HFC Bank Stadium, Suva, Fiji, 4pm (NZT)
Fiji v Tahiti
HFC Bank Stadium, Suva, Fiji, 7pm (NZT)
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