New Zealand achieved a landmark 4-1 victory over a 10-man Chile side on Monday in Auckland, marking their first-ever win against a South American opponent. This match was the All Whites’ final home game before the upcoming World Cup.
Earlier, fellow World Cup qualifiers Cape Verde triumphed in a penalty shootout against Finland at Eden Park, following a 1-1 draw in regular time. Notably, Chile had defeated Cape Verde 4-2 just days earlier on Friday.
The match against Chile saw an early setback for the visitors when Dario Osorio was sent off in the 27th minute after receiving two quick yellow cards. New Zealand immediately capitalized on the numerical advantage, with Kosta Barbarouses volleying in a corner kick in the 31st minute. Elijah Just then doubled the lead in the 40th minute.
The All Whites extended their dominance in the second half, with Jesse Randall scoring from close range in the 60th minute. Substitute Ben Waine added a fourth goal in the 71st minute. Chile managed a late consolation through Gonzalo Tapia in the 83rd minute following a swift counterattack.
Looking ahead, New Zealand will compete in the World Cup group stage against Belgium, Iran, and Egypt in North America this summer.
Meanwhile, Cape Verde, making their World Cup debut in June, overcame a goal deficit to draw 1-1 with Finland before winning the penalty shootout. Finland, who had previously beaten New Zealand 2-0, led at halftime thanks to Naatan Skytta’s goal just before the break. Cape Verde equalized in the 67th minute when Sidny Cabral assisted Kelvin Pires to head in from a corner.
In the shootout, goalkeeper Marcio Rosa made two crucial saves to secure Cape Verde’s victory. The team will face Spain, Saudi Arabia, and Uruguay in their World Cup group.
