Source: Radio New Zealand
England captain Harry Kane Pressinphoto / PHOTOSPORT
The All Whites will play England as a part of their final preparations for this year’s FIFA World Cup.
The two sides will meet in Florida on 6 June, five days out from the start of the tournament.
England, who went through World Cup qualifying with a perfect sevens wins in their European group, are currently ranked four in the world and New Zealand 85.
The game will see the All Whites face their highest-ranked opponent in 17 years and they will clash with England for just the third time in history.
New Zealand last faced England in 1991, losing two friendlies in Auckland and Wellington.
“Our strategy over the last year has been to take on top-ranked sides to ensure we are in the best place to perform at the tournament, and this match gives us a final opportunity to really test ourselves against one of the favourites,” All Whites coach Darren Bazeley said.
“England are a great side with big names all over the pitch, but we want our players to face that type of challenge so we can work collectively to find solutions against top teams.
“This match should be a great occasion but also a critical part of our final preparation before we face Iran in Los Angeles at the FIFA World Cup 2026.”
Captains shake hands, Stuart Pierce (England) and Malcolm Dunford (All Whites), All Whites v England, Athletic Park, Wellington. 1991. Troy Restieaux / www.photosport.nz
Prior to departing for the World Cup the All Whites will play two home games in March against Finland and Chile as part of the FIFA Series 2026.
At the World Cup, New Zealand play Iran, Egypt and Belgium in group G, while England will face Croatia, Ghana and Panama in Group L.
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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand
