Experienced Phoenix Trio, Al-Taay Join National Squads for FIFA World Cup Qualifiers

Three prominent Wellington Phoenix players have been selected to represent the All Whites in this month’s FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Vanuatu and Samoa. Veteran forward Kosta Barbarouses, seasoned fullback Tim Payne, and midfielder Alex Rufer will take the field as part of New Zealand’s 24-man squad. The matches are scheduled for November 15 and November 18 in Hamilton and Auckland, respectively, marking a critical phase in New Zealand’s quest for World Cup qualification.

Barbarouses, known for his on-field vision and goal-scoring prowess, brings a wealth of experience with 64 senior international caps. He is second in squad experience only to Premier League striker Chris Wood. Payne, approaching a milestone of 50 international appearances, adds defensive stability, while Rufer, a rising midfield talent, is on track to make his 18th and 19th national team appearances.

Upcoming Match Details and Broadcast Information

New Zealand’s All Whites will host Vanuatu on Friday, November 15, at Hamilton’s FMG Stadium before facing Samoa at Auckland’s Eden Park on Monday, November 18. Both matches, pivotal in New Zealand’s qualifying campaign, will be streamed live on FIFA+ for fans worldwide. The All Whites, buoyed by a recent 3-0 win over Tahiti and a 4-0 friendly victory over Malaysia, are poised for an assertive showing on home soil.

Mo Al-Taay Continues International Career with Iraq

In addition to the All Whites selections, Phoenix midfielder Mo Al-Taay has again been called up to represent Iraq in their World Cup qualifiers. Al-Taay debuted for Iraq in June and was featured as a substitute in Iraq’s latest match against South Korea. He is set to join the squad for matches against Jordan on November 15 and Oman on November 20. This international stint highlights Al-Taay’s rising prominence in Iraqi football.

Players Return for Phoenix Unite Round Match

Following their national commitments, Barbarouses, Payne, Rufer, and Al-Taay will return to Wellington Phoenix in time for the Unite Round clash against Melbourne Victory in Sydney on Sunday, November 24. Their return will bring invaluable international experience back to the Phoenix as they continue their domestic campaign.

Tags: #FIFAWorldCupQualifiers #AllWhites #WellingtonPhoenix #IraqFootball #Vanuatu #Samoa #Jordan #Oman #pitchside.hq #InternationalSoccer