All Whites a long shot in next match with France

A television commentator dubbed New Zealand's goal in its 3-1 Confederations Cup defeat to Colombia "the miracle of the century."

Harsh words -- but the Kiwis will surely need another one to topple already-qualified France in today's final Group A match at Stade de France.

Already eliminated from the Cup, the All Whites will be playing for pride against reigning European champion France, and praying the host is in a lenient mood.

France has little at stake, as it is already through to next Thursday's semifinals following Sidney Govou's sweetly struck winner in Friday's scrappy 2-1 win over Japan.

Although coach Jacques Santini fielded an experimental lineup against Japan, the manner in which the Asians dominated at times will have French fans calling for an immediate return to form -- and a bucket load of goals against the Kiwis.

The two sides are miles apart geographically, but also in a sporting sense. France has participated in 11 World Cups, winning in 1998, while New Zealand has graced soccer's biggest stage only once -- losing all three games and conceding 12 goals in 1982.