The All Whites delivered a strong performance in a narrow 1–0 defeat to world No. 36 Poland in Chorzów, with Piotr Zieliński’s powerful strike just after half-time proving decisive. New Zealand had the better of the first half, creating multiple chances—most notably through Callum McCowatt and Ben Waine—during a sustained period of pressure.
Despite matching Poland for much of the game and pushing for an equaliser—highlighted by Sarpreet Singh’s near miss—the visitors couldn’t convert.
Game 2 saw the team draw 1–1 with world No. 31 Norway in Oslo, ending the hosts’ nine-game winning streak. Despite missing Erling Haaland, Norway fielded a strong side, but it was the visitors who impressed early. Chris Wood earned his 88th cap, equalling the national appearance record, and helped spark a lively first half. Finn Surman scored just before half-time after a well-worked set piece, giving New Zealand a deserved lead.
The All Whites created several second-half chances, with Wood hitting the post and Ben Old’s header saved. Norway equalised through Antonio Nusa in the 62nd minute, and both teams pushed for a winner in a high-quality, end-to-end contest.
Roland returns to clinic before the team heads to the USA for matches against Colombia and Ecuador.