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From fifth division to the World Cup: Tommy Smith’s unlikely New Zealand return
How 2 Israeli newsrooms covered this story — translated into English and compared side by side.
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First reported by Mako · Jun 15, 2026
What happened
Tommy Smith, 36, has been called up for New Zealand’s 2026 World Cup squad after playing this season in England’s fifth and sixth divisions. The former Ipswich defender will make his second World Cup appearance and could enter New Zealand’s all-time top 10 for caps.
- 01Tommy Smith was named in New Zealand’s 2026 World Cup squad.
- 02He played this season for Braintree Town in England’s fifth and sixth tiers.
- 03Smith and Chris Wood will be the only Oceania players at two World Cups.
- 04New Zealand will face Iran, Egypt and Belgium in the group stage.
- 05Smith has 56 caps and could reach New Zealand’s top 10 with three more appearances.
Summary translated & synthesized from the sources below by baba. Read each original for the full report.
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