New Zealand's hopes of playing at the 2018 World Cup in Russia remain in the balance - and coach Anthony Hudson wouldn't have it any other way.
In front of a raucous crowd of over 37,000 at Wellington's Westpac Stadium, the All Whites played out a scoreless draw with the world's 10th best side Peru.
While it was edge of the seat stuff at times, clear chances were few and far between for both sides, the best falling to New Zealand's Ryan Thomas late-on.
While a home win would have been nice, Hudson said they were looking at the bigger picture - it was the final result after 180 minutes that counted, not after one leg.
A defeat would have been costly, but they head to Lima tomorrow evening with everything to play for.
New Zealand had keeper Stefan Marinovic to thank for ensuring they kept a clean sheet, pulling off fine saves in each half, and a content Hudson said after the match that heading to South America level was a massive result.
"I think that was the most important thing for us," he said.
"The key for us we said at the beginning, we said it's not 90 minutes, it's 180 minutes, we have to be in the game in the last 10-15 minutes over in Lima."
The Peru fans brought light and colour to the occasion, a level of passion that's bound to go through the roof when their heroes arrive back home.
Anthony Hudson says his boys are ready to take on Peru tomorrow. (Source: Other)
In the past, Englishman Hudson has been outspoken about his annoyance that New Zealand plays most of its matches overseas.
That, however, could be in their benefit, something that wasn't lost on him.
"I've always complained about never playing at home, as we always play away from home," Hudson said.
"We go in those environments, we're looking forward to going to Lima, this suits us, this sort of adversity."
They had managed to score goals in Japan, Mexico and the US in recent years, meaning the team has belief they can score on the road.
"We always score away goals, confident we can do so," he said.
"We have to make sure we’re right in the tie until the end."
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