Posted October 24, 2025 08:28
· last edited October 24, 2025 08:34
Napier Phoenix
Pasted, how many times over the last few cycles have we been pasted and at what levels? I really think this tosh about all of these meaningful games is just that. We are currently in a good position with an almost guaranteed place in World Cup finals and the financial windfall and opportunities it brings to NZF, players and coaches. There are nations that would bite their arms off to be in our position. Much like Nix and West Ham fans moaning about the shape of their stadia, there are copious teams that play in round stadiums (and with a running track) and the fans are quite happy and the atmosphere intense. Instead of everyone lamenting our dearth of ‘meaningful’ games or how far away they have to sit from the sideline - control what you can - increase the crowd numbers, get excited about your national team.Marto
I think this is the best bit of news I've heard out of Asia in a long time.
For those with short memories, remember it was the Bahraini leader of AFC at the time who banned kiwi sides from playing Asian football. I'm sure Japanese, Chinese and Korean clubs would far prefer playing in AKL, WLG, or CHC over Baghdad or Islamabad.
If this were to happen I genuinely think we'd make more money going down this route then banking FIFA slush funds every 4 years. Our standard of football in the men's and women's game would also climb dramatically.
The current WC qualification format means we make it easily to the WC at all levels but often get pasted. Going through this route and qualifying should mean that sides do well at the WC, hopefully getting out of the group stage comfortably.
Anyone in NZ against this proposed move is mad, pure and simple, even within NZF.
Have a look at some of the young ladies results and last men's Olympics.
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Unknown editoredited October 24, 2025 08:34
Napier Phoenix
Pasted, how many times over the last few cycles have we been pasted and at what levels? I really think this tosh about all of these meaningful games is just that. We are currently in a good position with an almost guaranteed place in World Cup finals and the financial windfall and opportunities it brings to NZF, players and coaches. There are nations that would bite their arms off to be in our position. Much like Nix and West Ham fans moaning about the shape of their stadia, there are copious teams that play in round stadiums (and with a running track) and the fans are quite happy and the atmosphere intense. Instead of everyone lamenting our dearth of ‘meaningful’ games or how far away they have to sit from the sideline - control what you can - increase the crowd numbers, get excited about your national team.Marto
I think this is the best bit of news I've heard out of Asia in a long time.
For those with short memories, remember it was the Bahraini leader of AFC at the time who banned kiwi sides from playing Asian football. I'm sure Japanese, Chinese and Korean clubs would far prefer playing in AKL, WLG, or CHC over Baghdad or Islamabad.
If this were to happen I genuinely think we'd make more money going down this route then banking FIFA slush funds every 4 years. Our standard of football in the men's and women's game would also climb dramatically.
The current WC qualification format means we make it easily to the WC at all levels but often get pasted. Going through this route and qualifying should mean that sides do well at the WC, hopefully getting out of the group stage comfortably.
Anyone in NZ against this proposed move is mad, pure and simple, even within NZF.