Two of New Zealand’s upcoming opponents — India and Panama — have drawn 1-1 in an international friendly in Bengaluru.
The All Whites, who are rated #86 in the FIFA men’s world rankings, meet Panama (#44) on Thursday October 1 (NZT), and host India (#138) in a two-match series on November 12 and 15, 2026.
Playing in front of 9,039 spectators at Sree Kanteerava Stadium, Ryan Williams put the hosts ahead four minutes before half-time, before substitute Omar Valencia equalised for Panama in the 68th minute.
Main photo: India’s Ryan Williams enjoys the plaudits from fans and teammates after scoring his side’s goal.
The match was the first-ever senior international between the two nations.
India will continue a series of high-profile home friendlies when they face Brazil in Kolkata on October 3 and Uruguay three days later.
Result
Game played on Friday September 25, 2026 (NZT)
India 1 (Ryan Williams 41’)
Panama 1 (Omar Valencia 68’)
Fixtures
Game to be played on Monday September 28, 2026
New Zealand v China PR
Longxing Football Stadium, Chongqing, China, 12.35am (NZT)
Games to be played on Thursday October 1, 2026 (NZT)
Match 1
New Zealand v Panama
Yokohama International Stadium, Yokohama, Japan, kick-off 7.10pm
Match 2
Japan v Ecuador
Yokohama International Stadium, Yokohama, Japan, kick-off tbc
Games to be played on Monday October 5, 2026 (NZT)
Play-off for third
Losers match 1 v losers match 2
National Stadium, Tokyo, Japan, kick-off tbc
Final
Winners match 1 v winners match 2
National Stadium, Tokyo, Japan, kick-off tbc
Game to be played on Thursday November 12, 2026
New Zealand v India
Go Media Stadium, Mt Smart, 7pm
READ MORE: All Whites to play two-match series against India in Auckland and Christchurch >>>>
Game to be played on Sunday November 15, 2026
New Zealand v India
One New Zealand Stadium, Christchurch, 4pm
This story was first published on September 26, 2026.