Haiti delivered a stunning pre-FIFA World Cup statement, thrashing New Zealand 4–0 in Fort Lauderdale in a sobering evening for the All Whites.
Haiti delivered a stunning pre-World Cup statement, thrashing New Zealand 4–0 in Fort Lauderdale in what was a sobering evening for the All Whites.
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Ruben Providence opened the scoring in the 12th minute, assisted by Wilson Isidor, before Haiti added three more after the break. Lenny Joseph doubled the lead early in the second half, Frantzdy Pierrot headed in a third and Duke Lacroix wrapped up the rout with a composed finish after Don Deedson Louicius cut across the byline.
The match was played in sweltering conditions, with temperatures around 30°C, and kick-off was delayed due to lightning in the area.
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FORT LAUDERDALE, FLORIDA – JUNE 02: A rainbow appears during a weather delay prior to the international friendly match between Haiti and New Zealand at Chase Stadium on June 02, 2026 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. (Photo by Megan Briggs/Getty Images)
For New Zealand, Isuzu UTE A-League representatives were well represented, with Wellington Phoenix trio Tim Payne, Alex Rufer and Sarpreet Singh all involved, alongside Auckland FC’s Nando Pijnaker, Callan Elliott and Jesse Randall, and Newcastle Jets midfielder Lachlan Bayliss. Kosta Barbarouses of the Western Sydney Wanderers came on as a substitute for Chris Wood in the 71st minute but couldn’t change the tide.
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Both sides are using these friendlies as World Cup preparation – Haiti face Brazil, Morocco and Scotland in Group C, while New Zealand open against Iran in Group G before matches against Egypt and Belgium.
Based on today’s performance, Darren Bazeley’s side will have their work cut out for them in Group G at the FIFA World Cup 2026.
