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The Guardian - AU
The Guardian - AU
Sport
John Duerden

NZ and Iran in World Cup limbo with LA story about more than football

New Zealand forward Chris Wood and All Whites teammates prepare for the 2026 World Cup with a friendly against Australia
New Zealand forward Chris Wood is a key to the All Whites’ 2026 World Cup hopes as uncertainly lingers over their opener against Iran in Los Angeles. Photograph: Steve Christo/Corbis/Getty Images

New Zealand will play their first World Cup game in 16 years with much of the planet watching what is surely the biggest event of the group stage. But little attention will be on whether New Zealand can record their first World Cup win with Iran their opposition on 15 June. As well as all the headlines and anticipation, the global spotlight adds an extra layer to the challenge for New Zealand coach Darren Bazeley and his team.

Ever since the US and Israel attacked Iran on 28 February, there has been uncertainty surrounding this World Cup fixture in Los Angeles.

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