All Whites to face India in NZ in November
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The All Whites will return to New Zealand in November in Auckland (Thursday 12 November) and Christchurch (Sunday 15 November) to face India in a two-match series.
The Christchurch clash will take place at One New Zealand Stadium, the first-ever football match announced at the new venue.
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The Auckland game will be played at Go Media Stadium,
The games were announced by Hon Mark Mitchell as part of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to New Zealand and will form part of a series of sporting events to celebrate ‘100 Years of Unity Through Sport’ between both nations.
The All Whites have previously faced India on two occasions, drawing 0-0 in 1981 and winning 2-1 in 2018.
Andrew Pragnell, New Zealand Football CEO was thrilled with confirmation of the games.
“We have long stated that once the stadium was open, it was an absolute priority to bring the All Whites back to Christchurch, so it is great to be able to confirm this game, as well as the match in Auckland.
“Christchurch has played, and continues to play, a really important role in football in Aotearoa, from producing legends like Steve Sumner and Ryan Nelsen right through to the next generation of our teams, with players like Kate Taylor, Finn Surman, and Joe Bell.
“It’s been great to have Christchurch host the Ford Football Ferns on a number of occasions in recent years, as well as serve as a base camp for Japan during the FIFA Women's World Cup 2023, and we see the city playing a major role in future A-League expansion, which is a strategic priority for New Zealand Football.
“One New Zealand Stadium is an incredible facility, so it is going to be amazing to see it packed with thousands of Cantabrians supporting the team.”
Darren Bazeley, All Whites head coach was also pleased to get another couple of games at home.
“It was brilliant to see the fans supporting us in North America at the FIFA World Cup, and it meant a huge amount to the team, so it is great to bring the players home for two big games in front of Kiwi crowds.
“We have strived to play a style of football that excites the millions of football fans across the country, so it is going to be great to close out the year with two fixtures in Auckland and at the brand-new stadium in Christchurch.”