Orlando Pirates forward Andre De Jong was not included in New Zealand’s final squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
De Jong, 29, joined Pirates in January and cited one of the reasons to be more visible for the national team coach Darren Bazeley.
However, it seems his lack of game-time at the Buccaneers, where he has made 11 appearances – just four starts, since his switch from the Cape Winelands has now counted against him.
Despite making the last three New Zealand squads, making three appearances off the bench, Bazeley opted against including the forward.
It’s only New Zealand’s third participation at the global showpiece, with the All Whites being drawn in Group G, alongside Belgium, Egypt and Iran.
Below is New Zealand’s full squad:
