New Zealand squad announced for upcoming W Cup matches

New Zealand recently unveiled their 24-member squad for the upcoming W Cup, with young sensation Lukas Kelly-Heald earning his first call-up. The squad includes 10 Isuzu UTE A-League players, with the talented 18-year-old defender set to face Egypt on March 23 and potentially either Croatia or Tunisia in Abu Dhabi later this month.

Kelly-Heald has impressed in his debut A-League season, featuring in 20 games for the high-flying Wellington Phoenix. Other notable Phoenix players selected include Ben Old, Kosta Barbarouses, Alex Paulsen, Tim Payne, and Finn Surman.

In addition to Kelly-Heald, All Whites head coach Darren Bazeley named Perth Glory goalkeeper Oli Sail, Macarthur FC midfielder Clayton Lewis, and Newcastle Jets’ Dane Ingham in the squad. The team’s fate in the tournament hinges on their performance against Egypt, which will determine if they advance to the W Cup Final on March 27, with a third-place playoff scheduled for the day before.

Bazeley emphasized the team’s focus on preparing for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, viewing the upcoming tournament as an opportunity to gauge their progress against formidable opponents. The youthful squad, boasting eight players under 23 years old eligible for the Olympics, reflects Bazeley’s belief in the team’s potential to achieve remarkable feats.

The squad announcement features a mix of experience and promising talent, including familiar faces like Chris Wood and Tommy Smith, alongside rising stars like Liberato Cacace and Joe Bell. The blend of seasoned veterans and young prospects highlights New Zealand’s commitment to developing a competitive team capable of making an impact on the global stage.

The upcoming W Cup presents a valuable testing ground for the All Whites, who are eager to showcase their abilities and lay the foundation for future success. With a roster brimming with talent and enthusiasm, New Zealand enters the tournament with high hopes and aspirations of achieving something special on the international stage.

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Denis Hardin

American writer and avid traveler with an insatiable passion for soccer. Hailing from the heartland of the USA, Dennis brings a global perspective to his writings on Asian football. His articles are a fusion of cultural insights and sporting analysis, providing readers with a unique blend of perspectives. Whether he's exploring the bustling football scenes in Tokyo or sharing anecdotes from his time in Mumbai, Dennis's articles are a captivating journey through the diverse world of Asian football.

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