Former All White Tim Brown believes New Zealand's current squad has the capability to achieve something no All Whites team has managed before — win a match at a World Cup.
The All Whites head into today's clash against Egypt buoyed by an impressive 2-2 draw with Iran, where midfielder Eli Just scored a historic brace as New Zealand took the lead twice against the 22nd-ranked side.
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Brown, who played with the All Whites during their 2010 World Cup campaign, said he was proud of the way the team handled a "hostile" environment during last week's game.
"We've played in World Cups before, but never have we dominated position and gone out with that type of attacking intent," he told Breakfast.
The former midfielder said the performance had raised expectations for the team.
"They've raised the bar now. I think if they don't come out of this group, if they don't continue that performance, the only feeling will be disappointment — and that's a compliment to them," Brown said.
New Zealand are appearing at just their third men's World Cup and were still searching for their first victory at the tournament.
Brown said a win over 29th-ranked Egypt could go down as one of the greatest moments in New Zealand football history.
"To win a game at a World Cup, I think it would definitely tick that box," he said.
He said leadership from the likes of captain Chris Wood and veteran defender Michael Boxall would be crucial, particularly with the All Whites expected to be outnumbered by supporters in Vancouver.
"A lot of this will be about the psychology of the moment."
Despite New Zealand heading into the match as underdogs, Brown said the squad had shown enough to give supporters hope that winning a match could be possible.
"I want people to understand how difficult this is, but if a team is ready to do it, it could be this one," he said.
"They have us dreaming."
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