New Zealand forward Ben Waine arrives at the 2026 World Cup after a turbulent spell at Port Vale, where he spent much of the season out of the matchday squad. The relegated club gave him limited minutes, but a decisive header against Sunderland in March revived his confidence and secured his place in the All Whites squad for his country.

He credits daily one‑on‑one sessions with coach Simon Ireland for sharpening his finishing. Working on one or two types of shots each day forged instinctive composure, enabling the loopy header he visualised before the FA Cup tie. The goal, his eighth for Vale, sparked a brief uplift in an otherwise bleak campaign and reminded him why he stayed in England during a tough season.

Waine enters the tournament aware of New Zealand’s shaky form – a 4‑1 win over Chile followed by losses to Colombia, Ecuador, Finland, Haiti and England. He expects limited minutes, likely on the left or right flank, but hopes a single chance will crown him a hero. The All Whites open against Iran, seeking their first World Cup win on the global stage.