Two goals from star striker Chris Wood have steered the All Whites to a convincing 2-0 win over The Gambia in their football friendly at Dubai.
The victory marks the first time since 1985 the All Whites have won three games in a row against non-Oceania sides, after beating Bahrain and Curacao last month.
In the 37th minute, Wood consolidated a dominant opening half for New Zealand with a back-heel flick in a goalmouth scramble to send his side into the break with a 1-0 advantage.
In one of several changes made by coach Danny Hay, captain Winston Reid returned for his first appearance since the early stages of the Tokyo Olympics and made an immediate impact on the NZ defensive line.
After struggling to create any goalscoring opportunities in the first half, the Gambians began the second stanza strongly, forcing a pair of excellent saves from NZ goalkeeper Stefan Marinovic.
After young gun Sarpreet Singh served up a pinpoint through-ball on goal, Wood then netted his second goal in the 67th minute, expertly rounding the goalkeeper and slotting home to put the match beyond the Gambians' reach.
In the dying stages of the contest, Wood had a couple of ideal opportunities to secure a hat-trick of goals, hitting the post on a clear break in a one-on-one with the Gambian keeper.
The All Whites hope to return to action during the next international window in January, which will be followed by Oceania World Cup qualifying in March.
New Zealand 2 (Wood 2) Gambia 0. HT: 1-0
