The All Whites may have been to just two FIFA World Cups, but there's no shortage of players' names that have made indelible marks on New Zealand's sporting history.
From Wynton Rufer, to Winston Reid, Steve Wooddin, to Chris Wood - the heroes of '82 and 2010 have been the flagbearers for footballers here.
But even the class of '26 were supporters before they were stars in their own right.
Most of the squad is young enough to be awed by their current captain.
"The last years, looking at Woodsy, I think he's the perfect role model for the team and even for me. He's been doing it for so long," midfeilder Sarpreet Singh said.
"He's such a humble guy, for everything he's achieved and is achieving. He's so down to earth, as a group it makes it easier for us to speak to him. He's always open for all of us.
"He's a leader on the pitch. He's someone that is very approachable and leads with his actions."
For many, though, Premier League stalwart Ryan Nelsen was the main source of inspiration for their own journeys.
"I think coming from Christchurch and captain of the All Whites, pretty special player, and we hear so many stories about him and his leadership," defender Finn Surman said.
Michael Boxall remembers the captain's heroics at Mt Smart Stadium in 2002.
"Ryan Nelsen popped up at the back post to score a goal to end up winning 1-nil. You remember special moments like that, but because they were all playing overseas... it was difficult to have that visible role model."
For winger Eli Just, fleet-footed Leo Bertos was the star attraction.
"Skilful winger, bright boots, he also played for the Phoenix, which I followed. I just think he was quite skilful, liked to dribble.
"When you're younger, those are the players you want to see. The ones who entertain you."
All New Zealand games at the FIFA World Cup will be available to watch live and free on TVNZ+ and TVNZ1.
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