Portland's Finn Surman dreams of World Cup history with New Zealand

Timbers center back aims to help Kiwis make their mark on the world's biggest stage

Apr. 9, 2026 at 5:33pm by Ben Kaplan

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a soccer match or competition involving the New Zealand national team, with sharp, overlapping planes of vibrant colors representing the team's uniforms and the energy of the sport.Finn Surman and the New Zealand national team embrace the challenge of facing the world's best at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, aiming to make history as the first Kiwi men's squad to win a match on the global stage.Portland Today

Finn Surman, a center back for the Portland Timbers, is set to represent New Zealand at the upcoming FIFA World Cup. Despite not growing up playing soccer, Surman has worked hard to earn a spot on the national team and is excited for the opportunity to compete against some of the world's best players.

Why it matters

Surman's journey to the World Cup highlights the growth and potential of New Zealand's national soccer program. The team is aiming to make history as the first Kiwi men's squad to win a World Cup match and advance past the group stage, which would inspire a new generation of players and fans.

The details

Surman, who is international teammates with Minnesota United FC's Michael Boxall, is known for his reliability and hard-working mentality. The 22-year-old believes the Kiwis' 'No. 8 wire' resourcefulness and team chemistry will be key assets as they take on powerhouses like Belgium, Egypt, and Iran in their World Cup group.

  • Surman began playing soccer seriously at the age of 10, a few years after New Zealand's last World Cup appearance in 2010.
  • The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be New Zealand's third overall appearance and first since 2010.

The players

Finn Surman

A center back for the Portland Timbers who is set to represent New Zealand at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Michael Boxall

Surman's international teammate who plays for Minnesota United FC.

Phil Neville

The head coach of the Portland Timbers, who is aware of the opportunities a successful World Cup can provide for a young player like Surman.

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What they’re saying

“It's something that I've worked towards for a long time, and it's been one of those goals in the back of my mind throughout football is to get myself into the national team and to represent New Zealand at a World Cup … To have qualified and now to have the opportunity to go is super exciting and super special for us.”

— Finn Surman

“Finn's greatest attribute amongst many might be his reliability. He is consistent and dependable both on and off the field with his play and professionalism, regardless of the circumstances.”

— Nicki Grabavoy

“We say first Kiwi team to win at the World Cup. I also think first Kiwi men's team to get out of the group at the World Cup … It's a challenge, but it's something that we're all really looking forward to and wanting to embrace and wanting to fight for.”

— Finn Surman

What’s next

Surman and the New Zealand national team will face a tough test in their World Cup group, which includes powerhouses Belgium, Egypt, and Iran. Their first match is scheduled for June 12, 2026.

The takeaway

Finn Surman's journey to the World Cup with New Zealand showcases the growth and potential of the country's soccer program. Despite being underdogs, the Kiwis are embracing the challenge and aiming to make history as the first New Zealand men's team to win a World Cup match and advance past the group stage.