New Zealand’s Under-22 side secured an impressive 2-0 victory over China’s Under-24 team in a friendly match played at Mt. Smart Stadium in Auckland on Thursday. The match served as a warm-up for the senior squads of both nations, who were set to play later in the day. The seniors’ match ended in a hard-fought 0-0 draw.
The young All Whites dominated the game from start to finish, and their efforts were rewarded with two well-deserved goals. The first goal came from the penalty spot, with Wellington Phoenix’s Sam Sutton stepping up to calmly convert the spot-kick. The second goal was scored in the second half by Riley Bidois, who showed great composure to finish past the Chinese goalkeeper.
Despite the victory, the New Zealand U-22 side will be aware that there is still room for improvement, and they will be looking to build on this performance in their next match against the same opponents. The two teams will meet once more, this time at Sky Stadium in Wellington, which will also serve as a warm-up for the senior sides’ match later in the day.
The win is a positive sign for the Kiwi U-22 side, who will be looking to build momentum as they prepare for future competitions. With a solid defensive display and some clinical finishing, the team will be hoping to replicate their success in future fixtures.
Overall, it was a promising performance by the New Zealand U-22 side, who will take great confidence from their victory over a tough Chinese team. The fans will be hoping for more of the same in their upcoming matches as they continue to develop and progress towards to a possible call up for the senior All Whites squad.
Oceania Football Center 