New Zealands All Whites Set to Face Haiti in Extra World Cup Friendly

The All Whites are making a comeback to the grandest arena of football after more than a decade away since their last outing in 2010. They are scheduled to meet Haiti for the very first time at Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale on 3 June, just before their encounter with England in Tampa.

We have been keen to secure two matches against other teams competing in the World Cup to ensure we are optimally positioned for the event, head coach Darren Bazeley commented in an official release.

Playing against Haiti and England, with both fixtures taking place in Florida, aligns perfectly with our preparations.

New Zealand holds the 85th position in the global rankings and will compete against Iran, Egypt, plus Belgium in Group G, aiming to secure their inaugural triumph in the World Cup.

Haiti, positioned just two places above them in the standings, is gearing up for their return to the tournament after 52 years since their debut. They have been placed in Group C alongside Scotland, Brazil, and Morocco.

Haiti possess strong capabilities and sit close to us in the rankings, making this an ideal challenge as we prepare to face Iran in Los Angeles, Bazeley continued.

The coach plans to announce his tournament roster in the middle of May, with the team starting their group stage against the Iranians at Los Angeles Stadium on 15 June.