New Zealand national football team All Whites return to the FIFA World Cup after 16 years and are set to kick-start their campaign against Iran on Tuesday in a Group G encounter at the Los Angeles Stadium, California. The All Whites come into the tournament with less consistent results, especially against stronger opposition. They suffered a heavy 4-0 defeat to Haiti and followed that with a narrow 1-0 loss to England after a closely contested match in June. Earlier in March, they recorded a 4-1 win over Chile but also lost 2-0 to Finland. Their focus will likely be on defensive discipline as they aim to improve their performances. Captain Chris Wood, a seasoned Premier League striker, will lead the line and act as the main attacking outlet. He will be supported by creative midfielders Sarpreet Singh and Matthew Garbett in the attacking third. Defensively, Michael Boxall and Finn Surman are expected to form the central partnership, facing the difficult task of containing Iran’s attacking threat. On the left flank, Liberato Cacace of Wrexham will offer width and experience, while Max Crocombe is likely to start as goalkeeper. The possible New Zealand starting XI is Crocombe; Payne, Surman, Boxall, Cacace; Bell, Stamenic; Just, Garbett, Singh; Wood. The match will kick off at 2am BST on Tuesday, 16th May. The FIFA World Cup Group G encounter between Iran and New Zealand will be shown live on BBC One in the United Kingdom. New Zealand have a fully fit squad with no injury or suspension concerns ahead of this important opening game in Los Angeles. Chris Wood's experience will be crucial in leading the team, and his partnership with Sarpreet Singh and Matthew Garbett will be key to creating scoring opportunities. The team's defensive discipline will be tested against Iran's strong attacking lineup. The All Whites will need to be solid at the back and quick on the counter-attack to get a positive result. With a strong team spirit and a never-say-die attitude, New Zealand national football team All Whites are ready to take on the challenge and make their mark in the FIFA World Cup 2026.