New Zealand v Uzbekistan - FIFA U-20 World Cup - Group A

Tuesday 23 June, 3:00pm (Local) / Wednesday 24 May, 6:00am (NZ)

Estadio Santiago Del Estero, Santiago Del Estero, Argentina

After a great result with win against Guatemala on in their opening game, the New Zealand U-20s go into their second game at the tournament against Uzbekistan knowing a win will take them through to the last 16.

Uzbekistan’s campaign started off with a loss, being edged out 2-1 by the host nation Argentina. With qualification hanging in the balance, Uzbekistan will be keen to take all 3 points in tomorrow’s match. While New Zealand can technically afford to draw with a win already in the bag, head coach Darren Bazeley spoke of the importance of preparation and motivation ahead of the game, as he made assurances neither he, nor his team would be planning on playing for anything other than a win.

What Darren Bazeley said about Uzbekistan:

 

“I watched them play against Argentina, there were moments where they showed they were potentially stronger than the host nation. They play at a high tempo, with fit and strong players and they are aggressive in the press. They’re going to come out firing, we can’t afford to go into that game trying not to lose, or trying to draw, it's dangerous to let your opponent have too much of the ball, they will eventually hurt you. With that being said, we’ve played some great football and the lads are full of confidence and excited for the test ahead. Every single game we have to be at our best technically, tactically and physically, if we want to compete with these teams but if we stick together and work hard together, we can get results on the world stage, which we’ve now proven and the players believe it now too.”

Likely team:

Bazeley highlighted in the pre-match press conference that there are many players looking for their chance and with a game every 3 days, there might be some rotation required. “Yes, we will see changes. The players that played (against Guatemala) put in a real tough shift, it's hard for them to keep backing it up every time, potentially we need some fresh legs, but I am very comfortable knowing whoever plays will pick up the baton and run with it, there’s players itching to get on the pitch, everyone wants their opportunity”

Key player to watch: Makhmud Makhamadzhonov 

The offensive minded full back plays his football in the Uzbekistan Super League and has started the tournament with a bang, playing some excellent football and scoring against the host nation on Matchday 1. He presses high and has an excellent cross from the left side. Stopping his bursting runs forward as well as deliveries and shots from out wide will be key to New Zealand getting a positive result.

How to watch:

Live on Sky Sport NZ from (NZ)

Article added: Tuesday 23 May 2023