Story perspectives

Garbett Out, Rogerson In as NZ Draws Iran

6/16/2026

Summary

Garrett Misses Opener

Matt Garbett will miss New Zealand’s opening match against Iran after a hamstring injury was confirmed on June 14, 2026 during a training session at the University of San Diego.
Auckland FC forward Logan Rogerson was added to the squad as Garbett’s replacement.
New Zealand drew 2-2 with Iran in the Group G opener at SoFi Stadium.
Coach Darren Bazeley said Garbett was a great lad and that his absence was tough for the team.

Summary

Wood Sets Up

New Zealand will meet Egypt on June 21 in its second Group G match, a pivotal game for qualification.
Captain Chris Wood supplied the passes that created both of Elijah Just’s goals, including the seventh-minute opener against Iran.
Iran equalised in the 32nd minute through Ramin Rezaeian, prompting cheers from a largely pro-Iran crowd in Los Angeles.
Mohammad Mohebbi headed Iran’s second equaliser in the 64th minute, leveling the score after Just’s second strike.

History

Historical Context

New Zealand’s lone unbeaten run at the 2010 World Cup—drawing all three group games for three points under coach Ricki Herbert—remains the nation’s benchmark as the All Whites head into the 2026 tournament. With forward Chris Wood, who became the team’s top scorer in the 2022 qualifiers, and midfielder Matt Garbett injured, the squad seeks a historic knockout appearance.

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Garrett Misses Opener

Matt Garbett will miss New Zealand’s opening match against Iran after a hamstring injury was confirmed on June 14, 2026 during a training session at the University of San Diego.
Auckland FC forward Logan Rogerson was added to the squad as Garbett’s replacement.
New Zealand drew 2-2 with Iran in the Group G opener at SoFi Stadium.
Coach Darren Bazeley said Garbett was a great lad and that his absence was tough for the team.

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