U-20 FIFA World Cup: With Myanmar behind them, NZ now face big guns

Monty Patterson is congratulated by Deklan Wynne. Photo / Mark Mitchell

Wellington Regional Stadium played host to scenes of jubilation on Friday as the New Zealand Under 20s swept aside Myanmar.

But there will be a much bigger celebration on deck if the cup hosts can go one better this Thursday night in Hamilton.

As a result of New Zealand's 5-1 triumph against Myanmar, the youngsters now face the daunting proposition of meeting a Portugal side who have been firing on all cylinders so far this tournament.

Helio Sousa's side have smashed 10 goals past decent opposition in Qatar, Colombia and Senegal, only conceding once as they quickly showcased their status as one of the favourites to take out the title.

Two-time U-20 Fifa World Cup champions, Portugal possess oodles of class, with plenty of attacking firepower in the likes of Andre Silva, Nuno Santos and Ivo Rodrigues - who have all got their names on the scoresheet with some well-taken goals this campaign.

The Junior All Whites are well aware of their outsider status for the clash at Waikato Stadium in Hamilton, and to be in with a shot Darren Bazeley's side will require a defensive performance on par with their showing against Ukraine, along with a similar attacking showing as they displayed against Myanmar.

"Portugal is a very strong team," Bazeley said. "They qualified for the tournament out of a strong competition in Europe and so far look like one of the best teams here.

"It's going to be a massive challenge for us and it's one we are excited to prepare for against some of the best players in the world."