New Zealand will contest the Kirin Cup final against Japan on Monday, 5 October. The match in Tokyo kicks off at 10:30 UTC and offers a significant test for Darren Bazeley's side as they build towards World Cup qualification.
Bazeley's team heads into the final off the back of a 1-1 draw away to Panama last Tuesday. Marko Stamenić opened the scoring for the All Whites in the 13th minute, with Ben Waine providing the assist. Panama equalised just before half-time through Dylan Herbert. The result extended New Zealand's recent form to one win, two draws and two losses from their last five matches.
That run includes a 3-0 victory over China and a 2-2 draw with Palestine last month, but also heavy home defeats to Belgium and Egypt in June. The team currently sits fourth in their World Cup qualifying group with one point from three games, having scored four goals and conceded ten. The side will be looking to improve their position in the standings when qualifying resumes.
Japan, the hosts, are in strong form. They are unbeaten in their last three games, with wins over Uruguay and Venezuela preceding a goalless draw with Ecuador. Their likely lineup includes European-based players like Takefusa Kubo, Hiroki Ito and Ao Tanaka.
New Zealand's last starting eleven against Panama featured Alex Paulsen in goal, with a back four of Callan Elliot, Michael Boxall, Tyler Bindon and Ben Old. The midfield trio of Alex Rufer, Marko Stamenić and Lukas Rogerson supported attackers Elijah Just, Ben Waine and captain Chris Wood. Bazeley is expected to name a similar squad for the final, with the team looking to secure a first piece of silverware since the 2016 OFC Nations Cup. The final squad selection will be confirmed on Sunday. Fans can view the full squad and check the latest fixtures on our dedicated pages.
