All Whites Show Promise in 2-1 Defeat to Higher-Ranked Ukraine

TORONTO (June 11, 2024) — New Zealand’s national team delivered an impressive performance despite a 2-1 loss to Ukraine in their second match of the Canadian Shield tournament at BMO Field. Facing opponents ranked 59 places higher in the FIFA world rankings, the All Whites demonstrated tactical discipline and fighting spirit that bodes well for future competitions.

Match Summary: Moments That Mattered

Ukraine (#25 FIFA) broke the deadlock in the 54th minute through Oleksiy Hutsulyak’s precise finish, but New Zealand (#86) responded immediately. Captain Liberato Cacace’s dangerous corner found Michael Boxall, who headed across goal for Marko Stamenic to equalize in the 56th minute.

The decisive moment came in the 75th minute when Arsenal’s Oleksandr Zinchenko – introduced as a substitute – scored with his first touch, a clinical 12-yard strike that proved the difference.

Tactical Breakdown

Coach Darren Bazeley made three changes from the team that beat Côte d’Ivoire:

• Matt Garbett replaced injured winger Callum McCowatt

• Ben Waine started ahead of Kosta Barbarouses

• Michael Boxall returned in defense for Bill Tuiloma

Key Statistics:

• Shots: Ukraine 14 (5 on target) – New Zealand 8 (3 on target)

• Possession: Ukraine 58% – New Zealand 42%

• Saves: Crocombe 4 – Lunin 2

Goalkeeper Max Crocombe was outstanding, making crucial saves in the 16th and 68th minutes to keep New Zealand in contention.

Post-Match Reactions

Darren Bazeley (NZ Coach):
“We showed we can compete with top-30 nations. The immediate response to their first goal demonstrated our character.”

Marko Stamenic (Goalscorer):
“Scoring against Ukraine is special, but we’re disappointed not to get something from the game.”

Tournament Context

The Canadian Shield features unique rules:

• 3 points for regulation win

• 2 points for shootout win

• 1 point for shootout loss

• Straight to penalties after 90 minutes

New Zealand’s tournament:
✓ 2-1 win vs Côte d’Ivoire
✗ 2-1 loss vs Ukraine
⌛ Next: Hosts Canada