New Zealand defender Nando Pijnaker is racing against time to recover for the World Cup after dislocating his shoulder during Auckland FC’s 2-2 draw with Melbourne Victory in the A-League over the weekend.
Pijnaker was anticipated to be among the centre backs selected by coach Darren Bazeley for the World Cup squad heading into the finals, set to take place from June 11 to July 19 across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.
Auckland FC announced Pijnaker’s injury on Tuesday, revealing that the 27-year-old, who hails from the Netherlands, would be consulting a specialist for further assessment.
Recovery from a dislocated shoulder can extend to 16 weeks. New Zealand will kick off their World Cup journey against Iran on June 15.
Pijnaker’s injury adds him to an already lengthy list of sidelined New Zealand defenders, including Michael Boxall, Tommy Smith, Liberato Cacace, and Francis de Vries. Additionally, midfielder Sarpreet Singh is battling a knee issue.
On a brighter note for Bazeley, Chris Wood, the captain and leading goal-scorer for New Zealand, made his long-awaited return to the pitch after nearly six months out due to knee surgery, appearing in Nottingham Forest’s 1-1 draw with Aston Villa in the Premier League.
During the World Cup group stage, New Zealand will also face Egypt and Belgium, marking their return to the tournament for the first time since South Africa in 2010.
Compiled by SportArena.au
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