AUS vs NZ Match Review – Who Dominated & What’s Next?

When sport brings together Australia and New Zealand, it's about so much more than the game. It is a clash of pride, culture and history. In whatever the code, cricket, rugby, football, this Trans-Tasman rivalry guarantees the passion and emotion that only matches between Australia and New Zealand bring. 

On 5th September 2025, the two countries faced off once again in the Soccer Ashes, a rebirthed footballing contest with a trophy that has been lost to history for decades. The future of the rivalry has certainly started in enjoyably dramatic fashion, with the first leg being held at Canberra's GIO Stadium, where an electric atmosphere endured a night of thrills, drama, and emotional high points. 

Australia prevailed over New Zealand with a narrow 2-1 victory, but of course, scorelines don't tell the full story. Soon we will reflect on pandemic soccer, as we cover: 

Who was the overall winner of the contest? 

Highlights and match turning moments. 

Individual performances and statistics. 

The emotional significance of the occasion after a historic match. 

What's next for both teams leading into the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Match Highlights – A Timeline Of Emotions

Kickoff Excitement – The atmosphere was electric, with the stadium full to the rafters: Aussie fans waving their green-and-gold flags, Kiwi fans singing raucously. 

Early Surprise - New Zealand captain Chris Wood shocked the home fans with a headed goal that gave the visitors a one-goal lead at 1–0. 

Aussie Response – Youngster, Nestory Irankunda, brought some urgency to the game, linking with Sam Silvera, to tie the game before half time.

Midfield Battles - The young Aussie midfield trio completely owned possession, as Ryan Thomas (injured and returning after 6 years) tried to take back control for the Kiwis. 

Game-Changing Moments – Brilliant assist from Adrian Segecic early in the second half to create Australia's second goal. 

Final minutes – New Zealand's attempt to press forward and score a goal was thwarted by Australia's well-organized defensive shape. 

Final Whistle - Another celebration for Australia and another loss for New Zealand. Australia remains unbeaten against NZ since 2002.

Match Statistics

Who Dominated The Match?

Strength of Australia: Australia controlled the ball, produced more chances and their younger players showed desire. Their attacking movement looked sharper.

Spirit of New Zealand: NZ were clearly brave and Wood's leadership kept them fighting but they weren't amply serviced in moments due to lack of depth.

Verdict: Australia were the better team overall but New Zealand's courageous performance ensured the contest was alive until the very end.

Key Players And Their Impact

Australia

Nestory Irankunda – The rising star. His pace and skill tore apart NZ's defence. 

Adrian Segecic – The creative spark, his assist was the match-winner.

Mat Ryan (GK) – A calm leader at the back, and put fire in the defence at crucial times.

New Zealand

Chris Wood – Scored the first goal & carried the hopes of his team.

Ryan Thomas – After six years away, he brought energy and creativity to midfield. 

Liberato Cacace – Hard-working fullback, that never gave up till the end.

Human Angle – More Than Just a Game

This fixture was not only about football - it was about the feelings and history.

The Lost Trophy: The Soccer Ashes trophy (which was created in 1923, from ashes of cigars from each captain), went missing for decades until recently. To hold it again sent shivers down the spine of all the players and every fan.

The Debutants: For young Australians on their debut, walking out in front of a passionate home crowd was a childhood dream, while their families experienced strong emotions from the stands.

The New Zealand Veterans: Chris Wood said before the game, "To beat Australia (in a football) would feel like winning a World Cup for us." His feelings were evident from the immediate whistle.

The Fans: The families, the kids, the hard-core supporters, and fans of both teams, didn't survive the game - instead of just another match, they participated in a sporting festival.

🚩Live: Australia vs New Zealand

TV📺Link👉🏾 https://t.co/Lv0PPThkmk

Like & Repost..!! pic.twitter.com/P930BE5KSg

— Australia vs New Zealand Live Stream (@totmatchuk) September 5, 2025

What’s Next?

Second leg in Auckland (9th September 2025)

New Zealand will have the home turf.

The Kiwi fans will put on a fiery show.

Australia will want to try and double up.

Preparations for the 2026 World Cup.

Both teams are hosts so already qualified (Australia as a co-host NZ as part of the OFC).

These matches are great opportunities to test out the next breed of young players.

Future of the Soccer Ashes

With the cup coming back, there is hope that it can be a regular feature in the football calendar.