All Whites aim for Kirin Cup success in Japan
Wednesday 30 September 2026 · 4 outlets · 7 reports · updated In this story All Whites, Darren Bazeley, Chris Wood, FIFA, Alex Paulsen, Callum McCowatt
The All Whites are preparing to face Panama at Yokohama Stadium on Thursday as part of the Kirin Cup. Following recent wins against China and a draw with Palestine, the team aims to reach the tournament final. Captain Chris Wood has joined the squad in Japan after reflecting on the team's recent World Cup exit.
Key facts
4 facts
- All Whites vs Panama, Kirin Cup, Yokohama Stadium, Thursday 7.10pm NZT
- Chris Wood to earn his 94th cap against Panama
- All Whites recent results: 2-2 draw with Palestine and 3-0 win over China
- Panama is ranked 44th or 46th in the world, while the All Whites are 85th
The full story
1 min read · 4 outlets
The All Whites will face Panama at Yokohama Stadium in Japan on Thursday night at 7.10pm. This match is the team's first in the Kirin Cup and offers a chance to advance to the final against either Japan or Ecuador. The New Zealand side is looking to build on recent performances, including a 3-0 win over China and a 2-2 draw with Palestine.
Captain Chris Wood joins the squad for the match, earning his 94th cap. Wood, who has seen limited playing time at Nottingham Forest this season, expressed a desire to score more goals. He noted that the team has scored five goals in two games and would love to score five more in the upcoming matches.
Reflecting on the team's recent FIFA World Cup exit in North America, Wood said, “We know we left a lot out there”. He described the tournament as having many positives but noted there are negatives to improve upon. Wood declined to provide specific details regarding team decisions or mistakes, stating, “That’s all for us ... inside information for us”.
Coach Darren Bazeley has noted that the level of opposition is increasing at the Kirin Cup. He described the recent victory against China as representing "good steps" for the side. The match against Panama is viewed as a different challenge because it involves competitive points rather than being an international friendly.
How it developed
- Thu 1 Oct, 8:00amChris Wood provided a more succinct reflection on the World Cup, stating the team left a lot out there.
Where reports differ
- Reports differ on Panama's world ranking, citing either 44th or 46th
Compiled from reports by RNZ, Stuff, The Post and NZ Herald.
