Gold Coast United striker Shane Smeltz insists the future of New Zealand football is very bright. The All Whites star said that although it was disappointing to be knocked out of the World Cup in the group stage without losing a match, the overall performance of the New Zealand national team was a very positive one.

"We defended very well but we struggled a bit going forward, though we did nearly surprise them a couple of times," Smeltz said. "There aren't many teams that go home after the group stage without having lost a game. We're a bit down at the moment, but when we look back at this we'll realise just how great our achievements have been. I think the future is bright for New Zealand football."