Nottingham Forest star Chris Wood was in action for the first time at the 2026 World Cup on Monday as New Zealand claimed a 2-2 draw with Iran.
The Reds’ big man is a hero in his home country, and at 34, this will undoubtedly be the final time he gets the experience of a World Cup.
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Wood is the captain of his country, and he took to the field last night looking to bring joy to the people of his homeland and claim a positive result against Iran.
It didn’t quite go according to plan in terms of claiming all three points, but as expected, Forest star Wood put in a memorable performance to help his nation.
National media wowed by Chris Wood vs Iran
The New Zealand Herald was seriously impressed with Wood’s performance against Iran and scored him a 9/10 for his efforts.
Wood turned provider for both New Zealand goals in this game, setting up Elijah Just to score on both occasions.
The national media wrote: “The All Whites’ big man is more noted for a direct approach, but found time and space against an Iranian defence that seemed a tad too deferential. Wood showed sublime footwork to set up Elijah Just’s glorious opening strike and was influential throughout.
“A defender’s late touch meant he was robbed of a bread-and-butter chance at a dead-set open goal right on 14 minutes. And it was an odd option for him to take the 44th-minute free-kick.
“Wood was an absolute handful for the Iranian defenders throughout; this was perhaps the best example of his attributes gelling with the talent and the needs of the young players around him in All Whites colours. The skipper put on a fend that would do Frank Bunce proud to set up his 46th-minute heave at goal.”
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Wood now sees New Zealand finely poised with games to come against Egypt and Belgium in the group stages.
The Forest man has one more year to run on his existing contract, and he will want to enjoy a solid final season at the City Ground.
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Wood is a proud Kiwi, and there will be nothing he’d like to do more than help the All Whites reach the knockout stages of this tournament.
This was a positive performance from the striker and one that Forest fans will be absolutely delighted with.
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