The All Whites have recorded one of the most significant results in their recent history, defeating the current African champions, Côte d'Ivoire, 1–0 in their opening match of the Canadian Shield at BMO Field in Toronto.

Head coach Darren Bazeley named a strong, youthful side, with 21-year-old Finn Surman starting in central defence alongside 20-year-old Tyler Bindon.

The game marked Surman’s return to the national team after missing the last international window to cement his starting spot at the Portland Timbers, a move supported by All Whites head coach Darren Bazeley.

Despite their youth, the pair were dominant against the experienced Côte d'Ivoire side, repelling numerous attacks from the AFCON winners in the opening period.

They were ably supported by a commanding performance from Max Crocombe in goal, with the All Whites shot-stopper making several key saves to keep the score level at 0–0.

In a tightly contested match, Côte d'Ivoire enjoyed more possession, but the All Whites defended comfortably and looked to counter-attack when opportunities arose.

In the 41st minute, the All Whites made the breakthrough.

Pressure in midfield from Joe Bell and Marko Stamenić saw Stamenić win the ball and thread a perfectly placed pass into Eli Just.

Just’s first-time finish saw the ball roll neatly into the bottom corner past the Côte d'Ivoire keeper, marking his eighth goal for the All Whites.

 

The second half saw both sides press for a goal, with the All Whites content to defend their lead when required.

A brilliant goal-line block from Finn Surman in the 70th minute typified the team's commitment to achieving their best result since 2010.

With 10 minutes remaining, Chris Wood, rested as part of managing his playing load after a long season, and Michael Boxall were introduced, and the team shifted to a back five with three centre-backs.

The tactical change made it even more difficult for the higher-ranked opponents to break through, offering valuable experience for the type of match scenarios the All Whites could face at the FIFA World Cup next year.

In the closing stages, both teams had half-chances, but the All Whites held firm to secure a famous win.

Speaking after the match, head coach Darren Bazeley was pleased his team had taken the opportunity to prove they can win against higher-ranked opposition:

“I think it's big. We wanted to try and get results against good teams because it brings belief. We know we're a good team, but we had to get over getting draws against higher-ranked teams. So to get across the line and get the win, I think it's going to be really good for them, belief-wise.

“There are still things to improve, as always, but overall I’m really pleased with the performance, the attitude, and the effort the boys put in. It was a really good performance.”


Article added: Sunday 08 June 2025