New Zealand appoint Darren Bazeley as new coach after former Wolves and Watford star impressed in temporary role… including the White Caps’ abandoned game against Qatar
- Darren Bazeley has been appointed new coach of New Zealand
- He had impressed in his temporary role with the national team
- Bazeley is aiming to qualify for the 2026 World Cup with the White Caps
Former Watford, Wolves and Walsall full-back Darren Bazeley is the new boss of the New Zealand’s national team.
Northampton-born Bazeley, who now holds dual-citizenship, will take control of the All Whites with eyes on the World Cup in 2026 where the Oceania teams will compete for a guaranteed a place for the first time.
The 50-year-old is stepping up from his role in charge of the Under-20s, after leading them into the knock-out rounds of the Under-20 World Cup in Argentina, in May.
He also took caretaker control of the senior team for friendlies against Sweden and Qatar, in June.
New Zealand abandoned the game against Qatar in Austria at half-time.
They led 1-0 but refused to return for the second half after racist abuse aimed at defender Michael Boxall, a New Zealander of Samoan descent, and what they claim was inaction by the officials.
Bazeley ended his playing career with the New Zealand Knights and Waitakere United where he moved into coaching and joined the national team set-up, where he has held various roles since 2009.
Darren Bazeley has been appointed new manager of the New Zealand football team
He was in temporary charge during the White Caps’ hostile game against Qatar
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