INGLEWOOD, Calif. (AP) — Midfielder Matt Garbett has been ruled out. New Zealand representative in world cup Monday, hours before the team’s game. Opening match against Iran.
new zealand soccer Garbett posted a statement on social media saying he injured his hamstring during practice over the weekend.
“The thoughts of the entire team are with Matt at this time and we are disappointed that he will not be available for the tournament,” the New Zealand Football Association said.
Garbett, 24, plays for Peterborough in England’s third tier and has scored five goals in 38 appearances for New Zealand. He played in a friendly against England in Florida earlier this month, which they lost 1-0.
Garbett was replaced in the 26-man squad by Auckland FC forward Logan Rogerson.
New Zealand, playing in the World Cup for the first time since 2010, are in Group G with Iran, Egypt and Belgium.
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AP World Cup: https://apnews.com/fifa-world-cup
