Mumbai: New Zealand expect a stiff challenge in their U-17 World Cup campaign at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai, said coach Danny Hay ahead of the Kiwis’ practice game here on Thursday against South American champions Brazil.
New Zealand are in Group B with Paraguay, who did not lose to Brazil in the zonal qualifiers, African champions Mali and Turkey — one of five qualifiers from Europe. The preliminary group games will be held at the DY Patil Stadium.
“For us, the scenario is very similar (to Brazil’s). This is why you come to the World Cup, to test yourself against the best players and sides,” said Hay here.
“There’s a strong sense of mutual respect between us. We know the name Brazil is synonymous with football. It’s going to be a good yardstick to test ourselves.”
He recalled how New Zealand lost to Brazil in the pre-quarters at the last U-17 World Cup. “That (two years ago) was the first time I was involved in a Fifa World Cup as coach. We played the round of 16 match against my Brazilian friends here and it was a massive learning experience. We don’t get exposed to high levels of football as geographically we are a bit isolated,” said Hay.
