Australia edged New Zealand 1–0 in an International Friendly on 5 September, with the hosts' defensive solidity proving decisive despite the visitors' superior attacking metrics. New Zealand dominated the expected goals battle, generating 0.72 xG from nine shots, four of which found the target, yet their goalkeeper was forced into a perfect performance, recording a 100 per cent save percentage to keep the scoreline respectable. Australia, operating in a compact 5–4–1 shape, created fewer chances with 0.61 xG from six attempts but converted their opportunities more clinically, managing three shots on target to secure the win. The gulf between chance creation and clinical finishing underscored the match's narrative: New Zealand's 4–3–3 setup afforded them attacking freedom, yet Australia's defensive organisation and efficiency proved too rigid to breach. The result marks a solid preparation victory for the Socceroos ahead of their next fixture.