They can make history

‘‘I don’t think there is one person in our group that looks at September or November and thinks ‘Actually, I don’t think we can do it’.”

The All Whites have never beaten South American opposition — and never come close to winning on their rare forays in South America — but captain Chris Wood also believes his team could defy history.

“The belief is already in this team,” said Wood.

“Whoever it is in November — if we are there — we will be ready for them no matter what quality of opposition we come up against.

“We believe we can get something out of it and we want to be back here [in Russia] in a year’s time.”

This All Whites team is starting to build the kind of camaraderie and cohesion that was so apparent in the 2007-2010 era. It was a critical success factor that enabled that squad to achieve results beyond their apparent potential.

Many of Hudson’s team have been in the fold since 2015 and have also developed together. However, this team has yet to display the steely edge that was so vital in the 2009-10 side. While most focus on the famous 1-0 win over Bahrain in Wellington, the path to South Africa was sealed with the 0-0 draw in Manama, an incredible defensive display.

Against top nations, Hudson’s team has yet to show they are capable of that.

While they probably have more flair and attacking potential than Ricki Herbert’s squad, they don’t yet have the same defence.

This team gave up far too many scoring opportunities at the Confederations Cup, looking vulnerable down the flanks, and a similar performance in November will be terminal to their chances. MYFC.CO: The digital platform to manage your football life CRICKET