There is a lot of frustration amongst the South African fans after their team recently lost 5-0 at the hands of Brazil. Even though they were taking on the five-time world champions, South Africa were not expected to receive such a hiding in front of the home supporters. They have a chance to redeem themselves when they take on New Zealand in a friendly that was only recently announced by New Zealand national team coach Neil Emblen. Emblen, who has been appointed as the interim manager until a permanent solution is found, will once again be leading the players for this match.
Emblen has been in charge of national team after he succeeded Ricki Herbert, who was the star of the World Cup 2010, following the national team’s failure to qualify for the World Cup 2014. The friendly match will be taking place just a few days before the start of the World Cup. This will be a great preparation for New Zealand, as they target to make an appearance in the World Cup for the 2018 season. The qualification round begins on September and Emblen has already laid down his target.
Emblen has been trying to revolutionise the national team during his unexpected short spell in charge of the team. He has been naming very youthful looking squads for the recent friendly matches.
“Given the nature of our situation with players now based all over the globe, it’s imperative we take every opportunity to bring the group together. A game in Auckland against strong opposition in South Africa – a country with which we enjoy a strong and competitive sporting relationship – ticks a number of important boxes for us on and off the field,” said the coach of New Zealand, whose team are without a win in the last six matches.