Analysis: It shouldn’t be understated just how big an occasion tomorrow’s fixture for the All Whites is.
Sure, this is a World Cup warm-up match – but an opportunity that rarely comes around – in fact, it’s been 31 years since New Zealand last played England.
“We have spoken about the challenge for us. It's just another game. We're more concentrated on Iran, making sure we are getting to that game in the best place possible," All Whites coach Darren Bazeley said.
"We all know this is a big game; you don’t always get these opportunities to play top 10 teams, let alone top five.”
New Zealanders face the two-fold challenge of fourth-ranked England and Florida’s stifling heat. (Source: 1News)
England, ranked fourth in the world, start their pre-World Cup campaign against New Zealand in Tampa tomorrow. The Three Lions are one of the frontrunners to go all the way.
The pressure is certainly on them to deliver – especially when there are over 100 media accredited for tomorrow's game... only four make up the New Zealand contingent.
For the All Whites, it’s their last shot to show their muscle before the tournament starts. And in terms of a response following Wednesday's 4-0 loss to Haiti, a draw, dare I say win, would be the perfect result.
By no means is that easy at all. England is boasting a star-studded line-up with the likes of Bayern Munich’s Harry Kane, Barcelona’s Marcus Rashford and Real Madrid Forward Jude Bellingham.
“It’s exciting. You get to test yourself against these players, and they play at the highest level for so long, and it’s an awesome opportunity to see how you can match up,” defender Finn Surman told 1News.
Bazeley is likely to give most of his squad a run at Raymond James Stadium – starting spots still on the line ahead of their first World Cup match against Iran.
Finding the back of the net crucial – the All Whites created chances against Haiti to no avail. If they can put goals past England, that’s enough to show the All Whites are capable, given the world-class calibre England have in defence.
“England are probably going to have more possession [but] can we still create chances to score goals,” Bazeley said.
Conditions are hot in Florida. Speaking to many of the players, it has been difficult but something they’ll need to get used to if they are to advance past the group stage at the World Cup.
The last time the All Whites played England was in 1991, when England toured New Zealand, with the Kiwis losing both games.
Now they get a chance to rectify that – a win, well that’d certainly overtake Tim Payne’s moment in the spotlight.
The All Whites face off against England in Tampa at 8am tomorrow (NZT). Watch the match on TVNZ+ and TVNZ 2.
Watch the All Whites' FIFA World Cup and warmup matches live and free on TVNZ+
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