“Ben Waine gives New Zealand an early lead with a clinical finish”
Pivotal“Assad Al-Hamlawi levels the score for Palestine”
“Jesse Randall restores New Zealand's lead just minutes later”
Pivotal“Oday Dabbagh equalizes again for Palestine right before half-time”
Pivotal
Palestine
New Zealand
All the action came in a frantic opening 39 minutes, as New Zealand's early strike through Ben Waine set the tone for a match that swung back and forth. Palestine responded well, with Assad Al-Hamlawi leveling before Jesse Randall restored the visitors' lead almost immediately after, only for Oday Dabbagh to draw Palestine level again just before half-time. The second half went quiet by comparison, suggesting both sides were content to see out a share of the spoils after an exhausting first-half exchange. For a friendly with no major stakes attached, the tactical carelessness on both sides made for an entertaining watch, even if the goalless second period took some shine off the occasion.
How entertaining was this match?
Palestine welcome New Zealand to Faisal Al-Husseini International Stadium in a win-or-go-home friendly knockout clash. With New Zealand tipped as favorites, Palestine will look to their home advantage and defensive discipline to spring an upset.
