Australia vs New Zealand: Predictions Preview, Lineups, H2h for September 5, 2025

On Friday, the Australian national team will face New Zealand at GIO Stadium in Canberra in an international friendly. Both teams are already qualified for the 2026 World Cup, allowing them to use this match as a warm-up without losing their competitive edge. I see promising odds for a bet on this clash.

Match Preview

Under coach Tony Popovic, Australia has been on a strong run, remaining unbeaten since September 2024. They have recorded five wins and three draws, finishing second in their qualifying group behind Japan. This friendly match against New Zealand forms part of their World Cup preparations, leading up to upcoming games against Canada and the USA.

Australia’s strength lies in their balanced play. The squad features a solid core with players like Cameron Burgess, Lewis Miller, and Martin Boyle. Goalkeeper Joe Gauci is trusted to start the match. Australia is enhancing their attacking options, focusing on pace and wing play. Expect them to apply early pressure against New Zealand.

New Zealand also had a successful qualifying campaign for the 2026 World Cup, though the competition level in Oceania is lower than in Asia. Under coach Darren Bazeley, they have won eight of their last nine matches, demonstrating maturity in both attack and defense. Their only loss came against Ukraine in June, despite a commendable performance.

Leading New Zealand’s attack is striker Chris Wood from Nottingham Forest, who has scored 44 goals for his country. He is expected to partner with Kosta Barbarouses, with Elijah Just supporting from midfield. However, they appear less assured compared to Australia’s deeper squad. Historically, New Zealand has struggled against Australia, last winning in 2002.

Probable Lineups

• Australia: Gauci; Degenek, Burgess, Miller, Rowles; Hrustic, Metcalfe, O’Neill; Boyle, Silvera, Irankunda
• New Zealand: Crocombe; Payne, Bindon, De Vries, Surman; Stamenic, Rufer, Bell; Just, Wood, Barbarouses

Match Facts and Head-to-Head

• Australia has not lost to New Zealand since July 2002.
• New Zealand has won 8 of their last 9 matches.
• Australia leads head-to-head matches against New Zealand with 41 wins to 13 losses.

Prediction

With both teams already qualified for the 2026 World Cup, this match will primarily be about pride and motivation. Australia seems to be the more organized side, especially under Popovic, and should make use of their home advantage. A narrow home win is expected in what will likely be a low-scoring match.