The All Whites have drawn with Tunisia in Cairo in the second game of their FIFA Series, before being defeated on penalties to finish fourth in the ACUD Cup.

Head coach Darren Bazeley made four changes to the side that was narrowly defeated by Egypt in the opening game of the tournament.

In defence Tommy Smith earned his 52nd cap replacing Nando Pijnaker at centre-back.

Reading’s 19-year-old defender Tyler Bindon replaced Dane Ingham at right-back. 

In midfield Wellington Phoenix captain Alex Rufer came in for Clayton Lewis and clubmate Kosta Barbarouses replaced Max Mata up front. 

The All Whites started strongly against the world number 41 and had the ball in the net in the 9th minute. 

A clever freekick created space for Liberato Cacace to fire in a long-range effort, his shot rebounded to Michael Boxall who crossed for Kosta Barbarouses to score but it was ruled out for offside. 

Minutes later two further chances fell to the All Whites with Tommy Smith going close from a corner and Callum McCowatt flashing a cross across the box but it couldn’t find a black shirt. 

The pressure from the team in black continued to build in the 25th minute when Sarpreet Singh won and then took a freekick from just outside the box to hit the side netting. 

It wasn’t until the 27th minute that the Tunisia had their first real chance of the game with a ball cut back to Rafia but he fired wide past the post. 

As the clock ticked past the half hour mark the All Whites had a golden opportunity to open their account after being awarded a penalty following Kosta Barbarbouses being fouled in the box. 

Sarpreet Singh stepped up to take the shot but it was well saved by the Tunisian keeper.Moments later the All Whites were awarded a second penalty before VAR intervened to reverse the decision and keep it goalless at the break. 

The second half continued where the first ended with the All Whites dominating possession and creating the better of the chances. 

In the 64st minute it was another great chance for the All Whites after Singh’s flick found Matt Garbett close to goal but the Tunisia keeper again denied him. 

The chance caused reaction from the African side who responded with two opportunities of their own. 

A 66th minute Tunisian freekick from the edge of the D looked dangerous but sailed over Max Crocombe’s net.

Two minutes later Tunisia had another chance with Kachrida firing wide after a rapid counterattack. 

With it goalless after 90 minutes the game ended in a draw but went to penalties to decide who would finish in third place at the tournament. 

Tunisia claimed the win scoring all four of their spot kicks.

 Final Score

New Zealand – 0Tunisia – 0Tunisia won the penalty shootout 4-2. 

Article added: Wednesday 27 March 2024