Chris Wood to Lead New Zealand at 2026 World Cup
Veteran striker Chris Wood is set to spearhead New Zealand’s attack at the 2026 World Cup in North America, according to head coach Darren Bazeley.
Wood, who was the youngest member of New Zealand’s 2010 World Cup squad, may be the oldest player on Bazeley’s roster next year at 33. He has started the Premier League season strongly, scoring twice for Nottingham Forest after a 20-goal season.
Bazeley is confident Wood can deliver crucial goals but stressed that his teammates must provide the same level of service he receives at club level:
“We’ve got this Premier League goal-scorer in our team. He needs service, he needs delivery, and the guys need to get that for him to score his goals like he does. Chris is an outstanding finisher. Most of his goals are one-touch. What he’s doing consistently is inspiring for young footballers, our team, and the whole country.”
New Zealand’s All-Time Top Scorer
With 44 goals from 84 internationals, Wood is New Zealand’s all-time highest scorer. He aims to become the fifth Kiwi player to score at a World Cup, joining Steve Wooddin, Steve Sumner, Shane Smeltz, and Winston Reid.
Ryan Thomas Returns to Boost Midfield
Midfield support may come from a returning face: Ryan Thomas, once one of New Zealand’s brightest prospects, is back after six years out due to injury.
“Ryan’s playing 90 minutes a week, had a great pre-season, and he’s ready,” said Bazeley.
“All the players are excited to have him back. He’s an intelligent footballer. If he can stay fit, he can still have an outsized impact on the history of New Zealand football.”
Aiming Higher Than 2010
New Zealand’s finest World Cup moment came in 2010, remaining unbeaten in the group stage against Slovakia, Italy, and Paraguay. For 2026, Bazeley is aiming higher: the nation’s first World Cup wins and a spot in the knockout stage of the expanded 48-team tournament.
“We know what was achieved before — three draws in 2010 — was unbelievable. This is a different team. I won’t say better, but it’s exciting. The ceiling is high,” Bazeley said.
