The World Cup did not deliver New Zealand’s targeted first victory or a place in the knockout stages. Yet Wood believes the experience can benefit a squad and coaching staff appearing at that level together for the first time.
“We have done extremely well at the World Cup, especially in the first game,” Wood said. He described the work under Bazeley as “a good process”, while acknowledging that the team still has plenty to address.
The forward was unwilling to single out selection calls, substitutions or in-game management, but accepted that improvement is required.
“It's one to reflect on and improve on for sure,” Wood said. “We know we left a lot out there that we could improve on and could change, hopefully in the future.”
The next opportunity arrives against Panama in the Kirin Cup. The report says New Zealand enter the fixture after a 3-0 win over China, while Bazeley expects a more demanding examination.
That match could offer the coach a useful chance to respond to the questions raised around the World Cup, while Wood may earn his 94th cap. His presence remains important as New Zealand weigh continuity against the possibility of a new direction.
For Bazeley, the Panama fixture is more than another international friendly. A convincing performance would strengthen the case for allowing the current staff to continue the work Wood believes has begun.
The coming weeks should clarify whether New Zealand Football sees the World Cup as the end of Bazeley’s tenure or the first major step in a longer-term project.