All Whites Face Attacking Uncertainty One Year from World Cup Return

TORONTO — One year out from their long-awaited return to the FIFA World Cup, the All Whites appear defensively organized and mentally tough — yet attacking doubts continue to shadow their progress toward North America 2026.

Following a 1-0 win over Ivory Coast — their most significant international victory in over a decade — and a narrow 2-1 defeat to Ukraine, New Zealand has proven it can stand toe-to-toe with higher-ranked opposition. The takeaway: defensively, Darren Bazeley’s squad is in a solid place. Offensively, though, the jury is still out.

Promising Backline Stability

The defensive unit, led by rising center backs Tyler Bindon and Finn Surman, earned high praise during this month’s fixtures. Bindon (20) and Surman (22) showed composure and strength reminiscent of former captain Ryan Nelsen, who watched proudly from the stands in Toronto.

Veteran Michael Boxall, still going strong at nearly 37, adds needed experience, while Nando Pijnaker continues his impressive form from Auckland FC’s A-League campaign. In goal, Max Crocombe justified his status as co-number one with Alex Paulsen by delivering clutch saves in both matches.

Left back Liberato Cacace, now a leader within the squad, adds reliability and maturity, making four of the five defensive slots settled. The right-back position remains uncertain, largely due to the unavailability of Tim Payne and Storm Roux during this window.

Midfield Holding Steady

Midfield performances were another bright spot. Joe Bell played his best football for New Zealand in recent memory, dictating tempo and breaking up opposition attacks. Marko Stamenić impressed yet again, notching an assist against Ivory Coast and scoring against Ukraine.

While the midfield trio of Bell, Stamenić, and possibly Alex Rufer offers promise, transitioning from midfield dominance to final-third penetration remains a struggle. Injuries to key players like Callum McCowatt and limited game time for creative options such as Matt Garbett, Sarpreet Singh, and Ben Old only highlighted the need for more cohesion.

Persistent Attacking Drought

In two games, New Zealand managed only five meaningful shots: two that led to goals, and three others that were either off-target or blocked. Though they edged past Ivory Coast with clinical efficiency, such minimal attacking output will not suffice against World Cup-level competition.

Chris Wood’s limited minutes were precautionary, but his absence revealed a lack of depth and creativity in the attacking phase. Ben Waine and Singh had flashes of opportunity but failed to convert. The late use of Francis de Vries on the left wing against Ukraine offered a spark — his crossing and set-piece delivery could become key if used consistently.

Who Steps Up?

With only 10 matches left before the World Cup opener, Bazeley’s team must find answers. Could Logan Rogerson, Andre de Jong, Max Mata, Jesse Randall or Ben Gibson be part of the solution? The looming return of Ryan Thomas — if he stays fit — could significantly boost attacking fluidity.

Another question is whether Stamenić should be pushed higher up the field. That would require greater midfield support behind him but might unlock his creative instincts. The coaching staff may also need to reconsider deployment strategies, ensuring New Zealand’s most dangerous players — particularly Wood — get service and space to thrive.

The concern is not just personnel but form. Many attacking players lack consistent club minutes, which hampers rhythm and confidence. The upcoming club season could determine who starts in 2026.

Time Running Short

New Zealand’s schedule from here is both an opportunity and a gauntlet. A home-and-away series against Australia in September could set the tone. October fixtures in Europe against Poland and Norway will offer elite tests. In November, two more matches in North America — likely against South American opposition — will complete the year.

The FIFA World Cup draw in December will define what lies ahead. From there, the countdown begins in earnest toward the June 11 kickoff.

Most of the squad now begins a hard-earned offseason after a brutal calendar year that included transcontinental travel and heavy international commitments. The upcoming 2025-26 season — stretching right up to the tournament — will be career-defining.

All Whites 2026 World Cup Preparation – Key Dates

📅 September 1–9: Home & away matches vs. Australia (TBC)
📅 October 6–14: Matches vs. Poland & Norway (Poland TBC)
📅 November 10–18: Two matches in North America (vs. South American teams)
📅 December 2025: FIFA World Cup draw