It may be after just one match, and primarily due to having obtained fewer bookings than their Group G foes, but sit top of the section heading into the second round of fixtures at the .
Speaking ahead of in Vancouver, coach Darren Bazeley made it clear that his side has no intention of being removed from that perch.
“Some people might be surprised to see us at the top of the group but that now makes this a big game. We respect Egypt but we are not scared [going into the match]. All teams are on the one point and we want to get three and make sure we get out of the group," he said.
Both those marks would stand as history-making ones for the nation. Appearing at the global finals for just the third time, New Zealand are coming off a 2-2 opening draw against IR Iran, a result that made it four consecutive stalemates, after their undefeated run at South Africa 2010.
One of two survivors from that tournament is captain Chris Wood, who made it clear that the nation sees this clash as one in which they can write a new chapter in New Zealand sporting folklore.
“We know what a win would mean for both nations. That would move us to four points, which should be near enough to go through [to the Round of 32]. To be the first team from New Zealand to win a World Cup match will be huge and it is something that we’re really motivated by," he said.
The squad was rocked by an injury on the eve of the tournament to Matthew Garbett, with the midfielder, expected to be a key part of their campaign, remaining with the team for several days before departing yesterday.
Bazeley claimed that will give his side extra motivation to push past an Egyptian outfit that also impressed in .
“It was tough with Matthew leaving yesterday, he’s a great lad and really tight with the group. Some of his best mates are in the squad and that’s tough for all of us. We don’t really need extra motivation to perform here but I’m sure many of the players will also be trying to do it for him tomorrow.
“With Egypt, we know that they have several world-class players, big stars that want to perform, and that we need to contain them. We know too what they have done in the past.
“It’s a challenge, but one that we’re really looking forward to. If we want to win at the World Cup, we have to play and perform against top teams and top players.
“To get that first win for our country would be massive and it’s something this group has been talking about for years, so we’re ready and, like I said, we’re certainly not scared.”
Sources: FIFA Official
