Haiti delivered an impressive performance as they thrashed New Zealand 4-0 in a World Cup warm up match in Fort Lauderdale, Florida on Tuesday.
The Caribbean side dominated the contest and delighted a large group of Haitian supporters in attendance. The result also spoiled a special occasion for New Zealand captain Chris Wood, who became his country’s most capped player.
Ruben Providence gave Haiti the lead in the 12th minute. The forward beat his marker inside the box before lifting the ball over goalkeeper Alex Paulsen from a tight angle.
New Zealand had an early chance to respond. Chris Wood nearly scored with an acrobatic bicycle kick, but goalkeeper Jhony Placide made a fine save on the goal line.
Haiti doubled their lead six minutes into the second half. Substitute Lenny Joseph found the net to put the Caribbean side firmly in control.
Frantzdy Pierrot added a third goal shortly after the hour mark with a powerful header. Markhus Lacroix then completed the scoring late in the match with a superb long range strike.
New Zealand struggled throughout the game and rarely looked capable of mounting a comeback. Defender Finn Surman and goalkeeper Paulsen both endured a difficult evening.
The All Whites also felt aggrieved after Tim Payne went down inside the penalty area following contact with Placide in the first half. No penalty was awarded and there was no VAR available.
For Haiti, the victory was even more impressive considering midfielder Woodensky Pierre was unavailable. The player, who is based in Haiti, arrived in Miami during the match after delays caused by visa issues.
Haiti are preparing for their first World Cup appearance in 52 years. They have been drawn in a difficult group alongside Brazil, Scotland and Morocco.
New Zealand will play England in their final warm up match on Saturday before beginning their World Cup campaign against Iran, Egypt and Belgium.
After the defeat, New Zealand coach Darren Bazeley admitted his side had received a tough warning before the tournament.
“It’s a very harsh lesson for us, especially with tough games coming up,” he said.
“The boys are in the change room very disappointed.”
