There is a rather delicious irony unfolding in Group G. While the giants of Belgium and Iran slug it out in a clash of reputations, the tournament's l...
There is a rather delicious irony unfolding in Group G. While the giants of Belgium and Iran slug it out in a clash of reputations, the tournament's lowest ranked side, New Zealand, are 90 minutes away from a place in the knockout rounds. It is a scenario that would have seemed fanciful when Darren Bazeley's men touched down in the United States. Yet here they are, facing Egypt with the scent of history in their nostrils.Let us not kid ourselves. This is a tall order, no doubt about it. The Pharaohs, ranked 29th in the world, possess a technical assurance and a physicality that the All Whites, at number 85, can only aspire to match. Egypt will likely look to dominate the midfield and exploit the gaps left by New Zealand's high energy, high risk approach. But here is the thing about this New Zealand side: they are no longer the loveable part timers who went to South Africa in 2010. Back then, they ground out three draws and left with a strange sort of pride. This time, according to the revered commentator Paul Ifill, they are "miles better". And if you have watched them in this tournament, you know he is right.The transformation is rooted in professionalisation. Every player in the squad now earns a living from the game, many in the English Football League and the A League. They understand the art of the low block, the timing of the counter attack, and the value of set pieces. Egypt, by contrast, will be smarting after a nervous opening result. If Egypt's defence loses concentration for even a second, the likes of Chris Wood will punish them with clinical finishing. It is squeaky bum time for both benches, for different reasons.What fascinates me most is the tactical flexibility on show. Bazeley has built a side that can sit deep and absorb pressure, but also press high and force mistakes. Against a team like Egypt, who prefer to probe patiently, the game could be decided in the transitional moments. Can New Zealand's midfield win the second balls Can they handle the pace of Egypt's wide players Those questions will be answered in the cauldron of a World Cup decider.For the neutral, this is a glorious narrative. For the All Whites, it is a chance to rewrite the script entirely. They did not come here to make up the numbers. They came to make a statement. And right now, 90 minutes stand between New Zealand and the most extraordinary achievement in their footballing history.
