2010 FIFA World Cup: South Africa - New Zealand

New Zealand v Slovakia. 15 June 2010. Slovakia and much of the world, was stunned when a goal deep in injury time from Winston Reid handed the All Whites a 1-1 draw against Slovakia. Coach Ricki Herbert hailed the draw as one of the best results in his nations football history. It was also New Zealands first goal in the finals in 28 years and sparked wild celebrations. New Zealand v Italy. 21 June 2010. If the first match was a surprise, the All Whites 1-1 draw with football powerhouse Italy was a huge upset as Shane Smeltz became the first A League player to score in a World Cup. Italy dominated the contest but could not score until a contentious penalty spared Italy from embarrassment and left New Zealand with a real possibility of making the second round for the first time. New Zealand v Paraguay. 25 June 2010. A courageous All White team left nothing on the field in their bid to beat Paraguay, but the fairytale ended as they could only manage a goal-less draw. Coach Ricki Herbert felt his side bowed out of the World Cup with pride as it missed an historical qualification for the knockout stages by a solitary point. The All Whites returned to a heroes welcome.