Overview

• Max Balard scored in the 87th minute two minutes after coming on, finishing a pass from Mohamed Toure in Canberra.
• The 1-0 victory pushed Tony Popovic’s start to nine matches unbeaten since taking charge.
• New Zealand controlled long spells, with debut goalkeeper Paul Izzo denying Chris Wood twice in the first half.
• Popovic described the first half as too negative and emphasized the need for continuity and fitness as he widens selection.
• This was the first leg of the Soccer Ashes, with the return in Auckland on Tuesday affecting FIFA rankings.