New Zealand have lost the first leg of their two-match Soccer Ashes series against Australia, losing 1-0 at Gio Stadium, Canberra.
The winning goal was scored by debutant Max Balard in the 87th minute, only two minutes after he was introduced to the game as a substitute.
The All Whites created several clear goalscoring opportunities during the game but failed to finish.
Australia struggled in the first half but improved in the second spell, especially after they brought on their substitutes.
READ MORE: Late heartbreak for All Whites as Australia take first-leg advantage >>>>>
READ MORE: ‘The boys are gutted’ — reaction from coach Darren Bazeley after All Whites loss >>>>
Watch the highlights
The teams head to Auckland for Tuesday’s second leg at Go Media Stadium.
The Soccer Ashes will be decided on the aggregate score of the two games. If New Zealand win the second leg by a one-goal margin, a penalty shootout will settle the series.
Result
Game played on Friday September 5, 2025
Australia 1 (Max Balard 87′)
New Zealand 0
Line-ups
Australia
Paul Izzo, Alessandro Circati, Milos Degenek (c), Samuel Silvera, Cameron Burgess, Patrick Yazbek, Ryan Teague (Max Balard 85′), Jordy Bos, Connor Metcalfe (Nestory Irankunda 74′), Ajdin Hrustic (Nicolas Milanovic 74′), Martin Boyle (Mohammed Toure 74′).
Subs not used: Tom Glover, Lewis Miller, Kye Rowles, Adrian Segecic, Aiden O’Neill, Joe Gauci, Jack Irelade, Hayden Matthews.
New Zealand
Max Crocombe, Tim Payne (Callan Elliot, 63′), Francis de Vries (James McGarry 70′), Tyler Bindon, Michael Boxall, Joe Bell, Chris Wood (c) (Kosta Barbarouses 63′), Sarpreet Singh (Finn Surman 75′), Eli Just (Ben Old 70′), Callum McCowatt, Ryan Thomas (Alex Rufer 64′).
Subs not used: Jesse Randall, Henry Gray, Logan Rogerson, Oli Sail, Luke Brooke-Smith.
Fixture
Game to be played on Tuesday September 9, 2025
New Zealand v Australia
Go Media Stadium, Mt Smart, Auckland, 7pm (NZT)
Ticket prices (Auckland match)
Tickets will be sold at ticketek.co.nz.
Before match day:
- Adults: $20, $40, or $80 (plus ticketing fees)
- 14 and under: $10, $20, or $40 (plus ticketing fees)
Match day prices:
- Adults: $25, $45, or $85 (plus ticketing fees)
- 14 and under: $15, $25, or $45 (plus ticketing fees)
Active Supporters Zone (South Stand – same location as The Port for Auckland FC):
- Pre-sale: $20 adults / $10 (14 and under)
- Match day: $25 adults / $15 (14 and under) (All prices exclude ticketing fees)
This story was first published on September 6, 2025.
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