Tim Payne avoids a called goal, but New Zealand is defeated by Haiti

Home Sport Tim Payne avoids a called goal, but New Zealand is defeated by Haiti
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June 3, 2026June 3, 2026By Mario Vásquez
Tim Payne avoids a called goal, but New Zealand is defeated by Haiti

The selection of Haiti defeated New Zealand 4-0 in a friendly match in preparation for the 2026 World Cup, played in an atmosphere marked by the support of the Haitian fans.

The Caribbean team was superior from start to finish. They dominated possession of the ball, generated the clearest chances and showed intensity against an oceanic team that had difficulty reacting. The difference in the score reflected what happened during the 90 minutes.

Before the match, part of the attention was focused on the New Zealand full-back Tim Payne, who in recent days became a phenomenon on social networks. The defender went from having less than five thousand followers on Instagram to adding millions in a matter of days.

However, on the field, Haiti imposed conditions. The Caribbean team showed order, speed and a defined offensive proposal, which allowed them to leave good feelings ahead of their return to a World Cup. Haiti will play in the World Cup again on June 13, 2026, ending an absence of more than half a century, since its only previous participation was in Germany 1974.

Despite the result, Tim Payne left some positive aspects individually. The defender made a key intervention to prevent a goal in a dangerous play. In addition, he showed good ball handling, personality to come out playing and defensive presence, which is why he stood out within a New Zealand team that suffered in all its lines.

Haiti made it clear that it does not want to limit itself to participating in the next World Cup event. With intensity, confidence and vertical football, the Caribbean team excites its fans and begins to generate expectations in a demanding group, where it must compete at the highest level.

New Zealand, on the other hand, will have to correct defensive aspects and find greater collective strength if it hopes to reach the tournament in better condition.

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