International Friendlies
Republic of Ireland vs New Zealand

Republic of Ireland vs New Zealand
Kick-Off at 20:45 (GMT+1)
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Both the Republic of Ireland and New Zealand are eager to rebound from recent losses as they face off in an international friendly on Tuesday.
Ireland’s 1-0 defeat against the Netherlands in Euro 2024 qualifying marked the end of a challenging campaign. Stephen Kenny’s team faced struggles throughout, with their only wins coming against Gibraltar. Failing to secure a top-three spot in their qualifying group for the first time since 1972 has added to their disappointment.
Despite a commendable defensive display against the Netherlands, Wout Weghorst’s early goal highlighted Ireland’s struggles in the attacking third. With just one shot on target in the match, there’s a clear need for improvement in their offensive approach.
This friendly marks Kenny’s 40th game in charge of the team, offering an opportunity to assert themselves against a New Zealand side ranked significantly lower in FIFA’s world rankings.
New Zealand, too, faces challenges with just one win in their last 11 matches. Their recent 2-0 loss to Greece continued their goal-scoring woes, marking the eighth game in which they failed to find the net. With their World Cup qualifying campaign likely starting next September, coach Darren Bazeley aims to bolster their form before the tournament.
Despite being labeled as underdogs, New Zealand might see this match as a chance to turn the tide and compound Ireland’s recent woes at the Aviva Stadium.
Kenny might opt for multiple changes to give certain players a chance to shine, potentially including Troy Parrott and Adam Idah in the attacking lineup.
Evan Ferguson might be rested due to ongoing injury concerns, but Matt Doherty might retain his spot despite limited appearances since his return to Wolverhampton Wanderers.
New Zealand might consider resting their leading scorer Chris Wood following his recent hamstring injury. The surprise inclusion in the All Whites’ lineup against Greece could see Nottingham Forest striker left out.
Plymouth Argyle’s Ben Waine could step in for the 31-year-old forward, with Shrewsbury Town’s Max Mata offering an additional alternative as Bazeley seeks to address their recent scoring struggles.
Potential Lineups
Republic of Ireland
- Goalkeeper: Bazunu
- Defenders: O’Shea, Collins, Scales, Doherty
- Midfielders: Molumby, Cullen, Manning
- Forwards: Parrott, Robinson, Idah
New Zealand
- Goalkeeper: Woud
- Defenders: Bindon, Smith, Cacace
- Midfielders: Singh, Stamenic, Payne, Garbett, Bell
- Forwards: Waine, Just
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*All odds correct at time of writing