All Whites

All Whites’ In California: A Friendly Match Turns into a Lesson!

The All Whites faced off against Mexico and learned a thing or two about soccer!

In a highly anticipated international friendly at the iconic Rose Bowl Stadium in Pasadena, California, New Zealand’s men’s national soccer team, affectionately known as the All Whites, suffered a tough 3-0 defeat at the hands of a formidable Mexican side. The stadium buzzed with excitement as fans gathered to witness the first-ever meeting between the two teams. Despite their lower world ranking at 94th compared to Mexico's impressive 17th, the All Whites were ready to give it their all on the pitch.

The match kicked off with Mexico asserting their dominance early on. Just five minutes in, Orbelín Pineda scored, setting the tone for what would become a comfortable afternoon for the El Tri. The All Whites, despite their valiant efforts, struggled to keep up with the relentless pace and skill displayed by the Mexicans. As the first half came to a close with the score at 1-0, coach Darren Bazeley knew a fierce comeback was necessary to turn the tide in their favor.

As the second half unfolded, Mexico showcased their striking prowess, netting two more goals that cemented their victory at 3-0. Chris Wood made a notable return to the squad for the first time in 2024 but could not convert any chances into goals. The All Whites found themselves scrambling on defense, with Mexico capitalizing effectively on their opportunities. Though it was a disappointing result, the match provided an invaluable experience and a true litmus test for New Zealand's skills against a higher-ranked opponent.

Even in defeat, there were bright spots to take away for the All Whites – lessons learned on positioning, teamwork, and strategy against tougher competition. This match serves as a stepping stone for their preparation leading up to the 2026 World Cup. Did you know that the last time New Zealand faced off against a top 20 ranked team was back in 2019? And, fun fact: Mexico is known as a powerhouse in soccer, often producing players who shine in major leagues across the globe, linking both culture and sport in a thrilling tapestry of competition!