For the first time in their history, New Zealand walked onto the World Cup stage. John Adshead led the squad into the unknown.
| Team | MP | W | D | L | GF | GA | GD | Pts | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
|
3 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 10 | 2 | 8 | 9 |
| 2 |
|
3 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 6 | 4 | 2 | 4 |
| 3 |
|
3 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 8 | 8 | 0 | 4 |
| 4 |
|
3 | 0 | 0 | 3 | 2 | 12 | -10 | 0 |
It was a tournament to forget for New Zealand, who left without a single victory to their name. Goals proved hard to come by, with just 2 in 3 matches, and their lack of firepower ultimately told.
New Zealand found the group stage unforgiving, unable to pick up a single victory against their opponents. Their campaign featured a heavy 2-5 defeat to Scotland, a heavy 0-3 defeat to Soviet Union, and a heavy 0-4 defeat to Brazil. The World Cup dream ended earlier than hoped, with New Zealand bowing out in the first round.
3lost
2scored12conceded
Lost all 3 matches conceded 12 goals in 3 matches.
Steve Wooddin led New Zealand's attack with 1 goal at the 1982 World Cup. Shared the top-scorer honours with Sumner, both with 1.
The tactical mind behind New Zealand's 1982 campaign. Guided New Zealand to their first World Cup a English at the helm.
With a limited squad size and no experience in major international tournaments, New Zealand employed an attacking style that caught opponents off guard. However, their lack of defensive solidity ultimately led to three consecutive defeats.
