Who is New Zealand's oldest player at FIFA World Cup?
Boxall makes his first-ever World Cup appearance for the All Whites.
Michael Boxall is now the oldest player to make a FIFA World Cup appearance for New Zealand at the age of 37 years and 297 days. He did so against Iran in the All Whites’ opening 2026 World Cup match.
This summer, the Minnesota United veteran and national team standout was named to his first World Cup roster. Earning his first senior cap in 2011, he helped anchor the backline as the “All Whites” qualified for only their third World Cup appearance.
Michael Boxall has consistently been a key member of New Zealand’s backline. He most notably scored the game-winning goal against New Caledonia to secure the team’s qualification for the 2026 finals.
Moreover, his debut came in 2011, a year after New Zealand played in the 2010 World Cup. At 37 years and 297 days old, he is the oldest to play in the history of New Zealand’s men’s national team at the competition. It is a major milestone for him.
He has been a regular starter in the national team. Michael Boxall played an important role in the 2026 WC qualification campaign. He netted his first international goal—the game-winner against New Caledonia—which formally secured New Zealand’s spot in the 2026 World Cup.
Michael Boxall becomes the oldest New Zealand player at the World Cup
Moreover, he is also making his debut in the FIFA World Cup with the national team. Michael Boxall has played for the All Whites in other competitions, but never got the chance to represent them in the World Cup.
However, following their qualification for the tournament, he finally received a chance to play in his first-ever World Cup.
After their 2026 WC opener draw, New Zealand will hope to secure their place in the knockout stage. Boxall will be crucial in every game.
How old is Michael Boxall?
He is 37 years and 297 days old.
Which club does he play for?
Major League Soccer club Minnesota United.
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After earning a bachelor's degree in mass media, Rajarshi began his career as a sports writer in 2019, driven by his passion for sports journalism. He has been working in the field for over six years. A devoted fan of Lionel Messi and Barcelona, Rajarshi has been involved in sports since childhood. Before turning his focus to journalism, he even represented his college at the state level. Along with covering football, he enjoys playing the game, watching movies, and experimenting with new recipes in his spare time, as cooking is one of his favorite hobbies.