All Whites striker Shane Smeltz hoping to deliver for New Zealand one last time

  • 09/11/2017

All Whites striker Shane Smeltz knows what it is like to score on the big stage when the lights are at their brightest.

The Germany-born Smeltz has represented New Zealand at a number of big events over the years, including the World Cup, Confederations Cup and the Olympics.

In 58 games for New Zealand, he has found the back of the net 24 times, but one of those goals stands out.

Early in the first half against Italy at the 2010 World Cup, Smeltz scored for New Zealand and it's one of his biggest career achievements.

Smeltz hopes he can deliver for New Zealand once more when the All Whites face Peru in a two-legged playoff. The prize is a spot at the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia.

"We haven't had a game like this in seven years," said Smeltz.

"Everyone is looking forward to it. These games are what you play for. As we've all said before we've all prepared for years now. It's time for action now."

"If the opportunity comes my way, then I think that's why I'm here. Everyone is here to help out and pull their weight where they can. If I'm on the field I'll certainly be aiming to do that as well."

The All Whites at the 2010 World Cup.
The All Whites at the 2010 World Cup. Photo credit: Photosport

At 36-years-old, this will likely be Smeltz last chance to try help New Zealand qualify for another World Cup.

Knowing that, Smeltz hopes to use it as motivation to help New Zealand make it to football's biggest stage for the third time.

"I haven't thought beyond these two games to be honest. I've just wrapped up with my club. I'm contracted until the end of the year so it's just full focus on these two games.

"It certainly adds to the occasion, I think, knowing that this is definitely or probably my last cycle. It would certainly be a fairytale to get to another World Cup.

"I think it's just as exciting, the pressure, the intensity, as it was the first time, so I'm going to enjoy the week. It tends to build towards the game but I think everyone is looking forward to it.

"This is the biggest week we've had in a long time, for everyone; the players, staff and the fans as well."

Peru head into the intercontinental playoff as massive favourites and are ranked tenth in the world - 112 places higher than New Zealand.

It is Peru's highest ever ranking and they haven't been to a World Cup since 1982

"Everyone is saying we are underdogs which we are - you only have to look at the FIFA rankings to see that.

"They are going to come here and feel the pinch as well. They haven't been to a world cup since 1982.

"They got the whole nations riding on that also they play big games in their region against big nations but this is a different story when you are playing the last leg to make a World Cup.

"They certainly can't come here and underestimate us."

The first leg of the playoff will be played in Wellington at Westpac Stadium on Saturday, November 11, with a 4:15pm kick-off.

The second leg will be played in Lima on Thursday, November 16, at 3:15pm (NZ time).

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