SEASON FINALE! 12 months out from the 2026 FIFA WORLD CUP | EP23 - The Unused Subs

In the 23rd and FINAL episode of The Unused Subs first season, Jacob & Goran are separated by the Tasman Sea, courtesy of a Spoonley family holiday... but through the wonders of technology The Spoon joins via video call. In studio our old pal TOM DOYLE slots into his position, alongside the big guest for the finale: ALL WHITES HEAD COACH DARREN BAZELEY!

In exactly one year, the 2026 FIFA World Cup will be underway. And NZ preparations for the biggest football tournament on the face of the planet just received a huge boost, with the announcement of the Soccer Ashes returning in September - that's ALL WHITES vs Australia's SOCCEROOS in two matches, home and away.

We talk to Baze about that, and so much more: the recent trip to Canada, securing victory against Côte d'Ivoire. How to manage Nottingham Forest's CHRIS WOOD during the next 12 months, in what will be a very busy time for the skipper. Which players will be hoping to secure moves this off-season to give themselves the best possible chance of WORLD CUP selection? With so many top quality central defenders, who starts in one year from now? And with some consistent football under his belt, is RYAN THOMAS a serious possibility of coming back to the national team?

Thanks to everyone who has taken the time to watch, like, comment and subscribe to The Unused Subs. We'll do everything in our power to return for a second season!

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