Tommy Smith prepares for World Cup with New Zealand in June
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 2, 2026, 12:50 PM
Last updated Jun 2, 2026
Tommy Smith, a defender for Braintree Town, is preparing for his second FIFA World Cup with New Zealand. The team is currently training in Florida ahead of their opener against Iran on 16 June. Smith, 36, reflects on his connection to New Zealand and the significance of this tournament, saying it could be the pinnacle of his career. After a challenging season with Braintree, marked by relegation, Smith remains focused on performing well as the All Whites aim to progress beyond the group stage.
- •New Zealand is in Group G with Belgium, Egypt, and Iran.
- •Smith played every minute of New Zealand's 2010 World Cup campaign.
- •New Zealand's first match is against Iran in Los Angeles on 16 June.
- •Smith's club Braintree Town faced relegation last season.
- •Training is ongoing with a warm-up match against Haiti scheduled.
- 12:50 PMYahoo Sports — Smith embracing 'special' New Zealand environment
- 12:49 PMBBC Sport — The Braintree defender going to World Cup with New Zealand
"Braintree Town defender Tommy Smith is looking forward to the "crowning glory of his career" at the World Cup with New Zealand.
"Braintree Town defender Tommy Smith is looking forward to the "crowning glory of his career" at the World Cup with New Zealand.
Sources
External links- Yahoo SportsJun 2, 2026, 12:50 PMSmith embracing 'special' New Zealand environment
Braintree Town defender Tommy Smith is looking forward to the "crowning glory of his career" at the World Cup with New Zealand.
- BBC SportJun 2, 2026, 12:49 PMThe Braintree defender going to World Cup with New Zealand
Braintree Town defender Tommy Smith is looking forward to the "crowning glory of his career" at the World Cup with New Zealand.
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