The All Whites get two chances this week to put the finishes touches on a four-year campaign.
It starts today against Haiti in Fort Lauderdale in the first of two warm up matches. The players will already be warm – given temperatures are going past 30C in Florida.
“Definitely a big factor the heat we've had a week together as squad to adapt and acclimatise,” All Whites midfielder Marko Stamenic said.
Given the heat, coach Darren Bazeley will need to conserve his squad of 26 – giving players game time but not exerting them with just 13 days until the All Whites first game of the World Cup against Iran.
“We have some ideas of minutes of different players but it’s a great opportunity to get some legs in them, we know we have Iran on the 15th [of June] so everything is building towards that,” Bazeley said.
The All Whites will be without Joe Bell and Ryan Thomas, with both nursing injuries. They take on a Haiti side ranked two places above them – and also World Cup bound.
“A similar ranked team to us, we have watch a lot of them. We know their strengths and weaknesses – it'll be a tough game in a tough environment,” Bazeley said.
Bazeley told media this is a game they want to win – but it's also a valuable opportunity to get combinations right. The majority of the squad assembled in Miami after their respective clubs seasons came to an end.
“We've all had a long and hard season with our clubs and we've had a break now. I think it’s about managing the minutes, making sure everyone is up to pace,” Stamenic said.
New Zealand team faces Haiti in Florida ahead of the FIFA World Cup next month. (Source: 1News)
The All Whites may have a few extra supporters this week – given the sensational rise in fame of defender Tim Payne.
Last week an Argentinian social media influencer identified Payne as the least followed player on Instagram to be playing in the World Cup. Before the post, Payne had just over 4000 followers – now, he has over four million.
Payne will get a chance to thank his new friend that’s propelled him to celebrity status, as he's set pay him a visit at today’s game.
“Tim’s dealing with it really well he’s that type of person that probably doesn’t get too over excited with too much,” Bazeley said.
Watch the All Whites' FIFA World Cup and warm up matches live and free on TVNZ+
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