The All Whites pulled off a landmark 0–1 win over reigning African champions Côte d’Ivoire in their Canadian Shield opener in Toronto, thanks to a composed finish by Eli Just and a resolute defensive effort led by young centre-backs Finn Surman and Tyler Bindon.
Despite being out-possessed, New Zealand stayed disciplined and threatened on the counter, with goalkeeper Max Crocombe delivering key saves and Surman making a crucial goal-line block.
The result is considered one of the team’s best since 2010 and marks a confidence-building step under head coach Darren Bazeley ahead of next year’s World Cup.
