All Whites vs Samoa

Monday 18 November KO 7:30pm

Go Media Stadium, Auckland 

Watch live and free on FIFA+

With the All Whites already having secured qualification to March’s FIFA World Cup 2026 – Oceania Qualifiers semi-final after their 8-1 win over Vanuatu, Darren Bazeley’s team face the already eliminated Samoa looking to make it three wins from three in the group. 

For Samoa, this game represents a free hit against the top ranked side in the region, playing the All Whites for the first time in over 30 years. 

The Samoan side has strong routes in Aotearoa with many players involved in domestic competitions at clubs like Christchurch United, Miramar Rangers, and Western Springs. 


Likely Team:

Head coach Darren Bazeley has hinted that there will likely be some changes to the team that started against Vanuatu on Friday.

One player who will be hoping to get on the pitch is left back Francis de Vries who is back in the squad for the first time in over a year after an impressive start with Auckland FC. 

After adding two more goals to his tally at home in Hamilton, Chris Wood will be aiming to increase his lead at the top of the men’s all-time scoring charts where he currently sits on 38. 


What Assistant Coach Simon Elliott Said About Vanuatu:

“I think we've got to realise we're three wins from a World Cup. So I think it's important that we make sure that we continue to do what we've been doing. Maybe a couple of tidy-ups, nothing major.

“It doesn't really matter who you go out and play. I know that's a cliche but it's about respecting what these guys have done with the program over the last two years, and keep it going in the right direction because we know that there will be tougher games in March, and with a bit of luck after that the games will get even harder, so we want to make sure that everybody's focused and ready to go.”


Player to Watch: Pharrell Trainor

The 18-year-old Australian-born forward, now plying his trade in Germany, has two goals in six games for his country. 


Where to Watch:

Catch the match live and free on FIFA+ from 7:30pm tonight.


Article added: Monday 18 November 2024