The Indian senior men’s national football team arrived in Auckland late on Monday night, November 9, as the Blue Tigers began their preparations for a two-match international friendly series against New Zealand. The tour marks India’s first-ever visit to the country, traditionally known as Aotearoa in the Māori language.
The team departed Bengaluru around midnight on November 8 and travelled via Kuala Lumpur, where they had a brief layover before continuing their journey to Auckland. The players touched down at 23:30 local time (16:00 IST), completing a long journey to the Oceania nation.
The Blue Tigers were welcomed by cool late-spring conditions, with temperatures hovering around 16°C and light drizzle on the journey from the airport to the team hotel. Despite the lengthy travel, the players appeared relaxed and energetic, with conversations and camaraderie continuing aboard the team bus as they settled into their new surroundings.
Head coach Khalid Jamil expressed satisfaction with the team’s condition and initial preparations, emphasising that the players were ready for the challenge ahead.
“The flight was smooth, and the players are fit and ready. We have settled in well. This is the first time the Indian team has come to New Zealand, so it is a new experience for us. We are looking forward to the matches,” Jamil said.
He also dismissed concerns about the weather, adding that the squad was adapting well to the conditions.
“The weather is not a problem. The players are adjusting well, and we will focus on our training and preparation,” he added.
India Begin Preparations for New Zealand Friendlies
India will begin their preparations in Auckland with an activation session on Tuesday morning, followed by an evening training session at North Harbour Stadium at 16:00 local time.
The squad will subsequently train at the match venue, Go Media Stadium, at 19:00 local time on the eve of the opening fixture.
The upcoming encounters will provide India with another opportunity to test themselves against international opposition, particularly in challenging away conditions.
Blue Tigers Look to Improve Historical Record Against New Zealand
India and New Zealand have met only once in the 21st century, with their previous encounter taking place during the 2018 Intercontinental Cup in Mumbai. The hosts suffered a 1-2 defeat against the All Whites, although India eventually went on to lift the tournament trophy.
Their first-ever meeting dates back to the 1981 Merdeka Tournament in Malaysia, which ended in a goalless draw.
With the upcoming fixtures, the two sides will renew their rivalry after an eight-year gap. For India, the tour also represents a valuable opportunity to gain experience against a strong opponent away from home.
Jamil acknowledged the quality of New Zealand and highlighted the additional demands of playing on foreign soil. He also urged the Indian community residing in the country to come forward and support the national team.
“I know there are many Indian fans here in New Zealand. I would request them to come to the stadium and support the team. Their support is important for us, and we will try to give our best on the pitch,” the Indian head coach said.
Reflecting on the challenge ahead, Jamil added:
“Last window, we played against three strong teams, and now we have another strong opponent in New Zealand. But this time, we are playing away from home, so it will be a different kind of test for us. We have to be ready, work hard and give our best in both matches.“
India vs New Zealand: International Friendly Schedule
The first international friendly between India and New Zealand will take place on Thursday, November 12, at Go Media Stadium in Auckland.
The match is scheduled to kick off at 19:10 local time (11:40 IST). Following the opening encounter, the Indian contingent will travel to Christchurch on November 13 for the second fixture.
The two teams will meet again at One New Zealand Stadium on Sunday, November 15, with kick-off scheduled for 16:10 local time (08:40 IST).
The two-match series presents an important test for the Blue Tigers as they look to make the most of their first-ever football tour of New Zealand.
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