New Zealand starting lineup vs Egypt confirmed for FIFA World Cup 2026 match

Both sides are searching for their first win of the World Cup campaign in tonight’s match.

New Zealand take on Egypt in their second Group G fixture in the ongoing FIFA World Cup 2026 at BC Place in Vancouver, Canada, on June 21. Coming off a crucial draw against Iran in their opener, the Oceania side need a good result in tonight’s match to put them in a strong position to qualify for the Round of 32.

The relatively inexperienced All Whites led twice against Iran in their opening match, with Motherwell forward Elijah Just bagging both goals. However, they conceded both times as the match ended 2-2.

However, it was still a good result for Darren Bazeley’s side, although they are yet to win a match in FIFA’s flagship tournament. With a tough clash against Belgium still to come, the Kiwis know that only a strong performance tonight will keep them in contention to qualify for the knockouts.

Also Read: New Zealand vs Egypt: Five key battles to watch out for in FIFA World Cup 2026

Let’s look at the New Zealand confirmed lineup for the FIFA World Cup 2026 match against Egypt:

New Zealand (4-2-3-1): Max Crocombe; Tim Payne, Finn Surman, Michael Boxall, Liberato Cacace; Joe Bell, Marko Stamenic; Callum McCowatt, Sarpreet Singh, Elijah Just; Chris Wood (c).

Substitute: Alex Paulsen (gk), Michael Woud (gk), Kosta Barbarouses, Lachlan Bayliss, Tyler Bindon, Francis De Vries, Callan Elliot, Benjamin Old, Nando Pijnaker, Jesse Randall, Logan Rogerson, Alex Rufer, Tommy Smith, Ryan Thomas, Ben Waine.

Thoughts on the lineup

Other than the forced withdrawal of Matthew Garbett due to an injury, Bazeley has the rest of his squad at his disposal. Talismanic marksman Chris Wood, who assisted both of Elijah Just’s goals against Iran, starts up top as the lone striker, joined by Just on the left wing. Callum McCowatt, who plays in Denmark for Silkeborg, starts on the right wing.

Indian-origin Sarpreet Singh continues to be his side’s creative outlet and starts in an advanced role. Behind him is the midfield pivot of Joe Bell and Swansea City’s Marko Stamenic.

Tim Payne, who has turned into a minor celebrity on social media, starts at right-back, with Wrexham full-back Liberato Cacace starting on the left. Portland Timbers youngster Finn Surman is paired with Minnesota United veteran Michael Boxall in central defence. Millwall goalkeeper Max Crocombe retains his place between the sticks.

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