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World Cup Notebook | In final tournament tune-up, Finn Surman and New Zealand with strong performance in close 1-0 loss to England

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Surman started and played 84 minutes in match

In their final tune-up match ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026™, Timbers defender Finn Surman and New Zealand put in a strong performance in the All Whites' close 1-0 loss to England Saturday afternoon at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa.

The two teams had not faced each other in over 30 years and Saturday's match was just the third meeting ever between the two national sides.

Surman started for the second straight match for NZ and played 84 minutes in the contest. He and the All Whites weathered 18 shots in total, with Surman providing a key block on England's Marcus Rashford in the 19th minute. England's lone goal came via a Harry Kane header in first half stoppage time but the All Whites were unable to find an equalizer.

Surman and the All Whites now head into the World Cup itself with their Group G opening match coming June 15 against Iran at 6pm PT. 

Come see the match at the Timbers Soccer Celebration, presented by adidas and McDonald's, in Pioneer Courthouse Square. Running from June 12-15, the event will feature live watch parties, music, food trucks, activities, contests and more. The event is free.

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