Soccer: NZF shun Argentina friendly

New Zealand Football have turned down the chance for the All Whites to play two-time world champions Argentina next month.

Offers of matches have landed at NZF headquarters in recent days following New Zealand's showing at the Confederations Cup, including one from world No 7 Argentina, but NZF declined because of "timing" issues. Another offer came from China.

Argentina are coached by the legendary Diego Maradona, who took over the national side last November, and contain luminaries such as Lionel Messi, Carlos Tevez and Javier Mascherano.

They are fourth in the South American World Cup qualifiers behind Brazil, Chile and Paraguay with four rounds remaining.

A match against the South Americans would have ticked off all the World Cup winners for the All Whites. New Zealand have played Brazil (1982 and 2005), Italy (2009), Germany (1999), France (2003), Uruguay (1995) and England (1991).

It might also have been invaluable preparation for the All Whites ahead of their home and away World Cup playoff against Saudi Arabia or Bahrain.

"We had approaches from China and Argentina but they don't fit in terms of timing," NZF chief executive Michael Glading said. "They would have been in July, and both away, which would have been tough for us. We get approaches all the time, most of which we have to say no to."

Glading said they expected to confirm this week friendlies against Iraq (September 5) and Jordan (September 8) to be played in the Jordanian capital of Amman.

NZF want the Jordan match played on that date to allow All Whites coaches Ricki Herbert and Brian Turner to watch the second match between Saudi Arabia and Bahrain, likely to be in Riyadh on September 9.

NZF sought games against Middle Eastern opposition as preparations for the playoff in October and November.

The Phoenix drew 1-1 with the Melbourne Victory in a pre-season game in Queenstown yesterday. Archie Thompson gave the visitors the lead early in the second half, before Troy Hearfield equalised in the 77th minute.