All Whites’ defender Nando Pijnaker debuts for Grasshoppers

One of the most talented defenders from New Zealand, 21-year-old central back Nando Pijnaker made his official debut for Grassoppers senior team in the 3-2 loss against FC Wil in the Challenge League – the second tier of Swiss football.

FC Wil scored two goals to take the 2-0 lead. Pijnaker came from the bench in the 63rd minute to replace Elias Mesonero to make his first official appearence for his new club. Mychell Chagas scored a brace to tie the match for Grasshoppers but FC Wil still had time to find the net for the third time to seal the 3-2 win.

Nando’s countryman Max Mata was not with the squad for this match. Grasshoppers are currently in the third position in the league with 60 points, only one point behind second-placed team FC Vaduz.

Pijnaker joined the Swiss team in January after spending some months playing for Torslanda from Sweden. Pijnaker was part of New Zealand U-20 squad that played the FIFA U-20 World Cup last year. He made his debut for All Whites last year in a friendly match against Lithuania.