India’s football team is set to face a tough challenge as they take on New Zealand in an FIFA Friendly match on Thursday in Auckland. This will be India’s first visit to New Zealand, known as Aotearoa in the traditional Maori language. The Blue Tigers, led by coach Khalid Jamil, have already faced two higher-ranked World Cup teams—Brazil and Uruguay—in Kolkata and Bengaluru earlier this month.
India managed a 1-1 draw against Panama in their last match but struggled against Brazil and Uruguay, conceding 10 goals and scoring only one. This encounter with New Zealand marks the third time India has played against them internationally. Their first meeting was in 1981 during the Merdeka Cup in Kuala Lumpur, ending in a goalless draw. The most recent clash was in 2018 at the Intercontinental Cup in Mumbai, where New Zealand won 2-1.
In that match, Indian-origin player Sarpreet Singh played a key role with two assists, despite not scoring himself. India took the lead through Sunil Chhetri’s goal in the 48th minute, but New Zealand fought back with goals from Andre Jong and substitute John Dyer to secure victory. Despite winning just one game at the tournament, New Zealand finished third due to their superior goal difference.
India’s squad includes goalkeeper Vishal Kaith, defenders Abhishek Tekcham and Pramveer, midfielders Anirudh Thapa and Lalremtluanga Fanai, and forwards Jithin MS and Manvir Singh. New Zealand’s team features players like Alex Paulsen, Callan Elliot, and Chris Wood.
The match promises to be an exciting encounter as both teams aim for a strong performance on the international stage.