The U-20s warmed up to the FIFA U-20 World Cup in Argentina with a 1-0 win over 2019 semi-finalists Ecuador at Estadio Alfredo Beranger, Buenos Aires.

Darren Bazeley’s side scored the winning goal in the 71st minute with Wellington Phoenix’s Ben Wallace slotting home from inside the box on debut.



A strong defensive performance throughout, a quick counter from substitute Norman Garbett put pressure on Ecuador’s back line. Continued pressure from New Zealand saw Ecuador misplace a pass, falling to Wallace to give New Zealand the lead.

“It was a good preparation match for us with almost everyone getting good playing minutes” said head coach Darren Bazeley.

“We had some really good moments in the game that gives us a lot to build on. 

“I’m really happy for the players to gain some success against a very good South American team, and so pleased for Ben Wallace to score a goal on his debut. 

“Definitely things to continue to develop, but some really strong performances as we move now to the FIFA U-20 World Cup games.”



20 of the 21 squad members were given game time with only goalkeeper Alby Kelly-Heald not taking the field.

New Zealand U-20 Starting XI:

Kees Sims (HT Henry Gray)
Isaac Hughes (HT Finn Linder)
Finn Surman (c)
Lukas Kelly-Heald (65’ Aaryan Raj)
Jackson Jarvie (70’ Everton O’Leary)
Adam Supyk (65’ Norman Garbett)
Fin Conchie
Jackson Manuel (HT Dan McKay)
Jay Herdman (60’ Ben Wallace)
Noah Karunaratne (60’ Oli Fay)
Oliver Colloty (HT Kian Donkers)

Final Score:

New Zealand - 1 (71' Ben Wallace)
Ecuador - 0

Article added: Tuesday 16 May 2023