With Hay on this. Surely someone like Tunisia would be keen on a pre WC friendly, given they are in the same pool as Socceroos at the World Cup.
Otherwise could be awhile before AWs play again, as focus moves to Womens & U20 World Cups in 2023.
And as last 12 months have shown it ain't easy to find tough quality opponents for friendlies (Peru aside). A chance to be the 'pseudo Socceroos' for some tough game(s) in November, seems an opportunity lost. Especially if FIFA would help fund it. From memory all 32 qualified nations for a WC get a lump sum from FIFA to help with their WC prep.
https://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/football/nz-teams/129855520/all-whites-can-bury-demons-against-australia-but-whats-next-after-that-remains-unclear
Speaking after naming a 24-strong squad, Hay confirmed his contract was set to expire at the end of next month and expressed frustration with regard to the lack of any plans on NZ Football’s part to seek matches in November on the eve of the World Cup.
Otherwise could be awhile before AWs play again, as focus moves to Womens & U20 World Cups in 2023.
And as last 12 months have shown it ain't easy to find tough quality opponents for friendlies (Peru aside). A chance to be the 'pseudo Socceroos' for some tough game(s) in November, seems an opportunity lost. Especially if FIFA would help fund it. From memory all 32 qualified nations for a WC get a lump sum from FIFA to help with their WC prep.
https://www.stuff.co.nz/sport/football/nz-teams/129855520/all-whites-can-bury-demons-against-australia-but-whats-next-after-that-remains-unclear
Speaking after naming a 24-strong squad, Hay confirmed his contract was set to expire at the end of next month and expressed frustration with regard to the lack of any plans on NZ Football’s part to seek matches in November on the eve of the World Cup.
“As a fan of the All Whites and a fan of the game, I think 100% the All Whites need to be playing,” Hay said, after referring to skipping November – where it’s not clear if clubs have to release players that aren’t World-Cup-bound – as “a hiatus”.
“The opportunity to play against more teams from outside of [Oceania], which November potentially would have given the side, is vitally important for their continued development.”