Surman started and played full 90 minutes in all three of the All Whites' Group Stage matches
Portland Timbers defender Finn Surman and New Zealand's FIFA World Cup 2026™ run came to an end Friday night as they lost 5-1 to Belgium and did not advance out of Group G.
Despite the loss, Surman had a strong World Cup campaign that saw him start and play the full 90 in all three of the All Whites' matches and included him scoring a goal in his team's second match against Egypt.
Friday night, against a heavily favored Belgian side, Surman was tied for the match lead with three blocks while also making six defensive contributions.
FOX's soccer analyst Warren Barton raved Friday evening in the broadcast about Surman's performance throughout this year's World Cup.
"Finn Surman's had an excellent tournament," he said. "Had the goal against Egypt [too] . . . Great sportsmanship.
"You know what I like about him? He likes defending."
Surman and the Timbers return to MLS play next month when they take on Seattle Sounders FC at Lumen Field on July 16 (7:30pm PT, Apple TV).
