Chris Wood’s cameo appearance from the sub’s bench during New Zealand’s 1-1 draw with Slovakia saw the striker break records for both his club and country. As well as helping the All Whites to their first World Cup point the 18-year-old also became the Baggies’ youngest ever player to feature at the finals.
The burly striker appeared in the 72nd minute as a substitute for Chris Killen and witnessed Winston Reid score a dramatic equaliser for New Zealand in the 93rd minute. The late goal broke the heart of fellow teammate Marek Cech who played the full game for Slovakia.
Wood will now hope to have earned a starting place against World Cup holders Italy on Saturday in Nelspruit (KO 3pm).