The All Whites drew 1-1 with the USA in a friendly match held in Cincinnati.
Despite the USA being ranked much higher, a late goal from Ben Waine in the 88th minute helped New Zealand secure a surprising draw. This result comes after the All Whites’ 3-0 loss to Mexico just days earlier.
The game began with New Zealand showing more confidence than in their previous match, pressing the USA and controlling the midfield early on. The Americans, ranked 16th in the world, seemed likely to win after their star player, Christian Pulisic, scored a well-placed goal in the 69th minute.
However, the All Whites kept pushing and were rewarded when a clearance attempt by the USA was deflected by Ben Waine into the net, tying the game just before full-time. The USA pressed hard during the 12 minutes of added time, but New Zealand’s defense held firm.
New Zealand’s coach, Darren Bazeley, made changes to the lineup from their previous game, bringing in Nando Pijnaker, Finn Surman, Elijah Just, and Alex Rufer. Chris Wood also returned as captain.
This was the fourth time the All Whites had played the USA, with their record now standing at two losses and two draws. The All Whites will next focus on their Oceania World Cup qualifying campaign starting in October.
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