The Olympic Games haven't even been officially opened yet, but the first of our Rodney athletes (sports) will be in action tonight when New Zealand take on host nation China in their first soccer (or as they say internationally, football) match of the Olympics.
The New Zealand men are in Group C at the Games along with China, Brazil and Belgium. Up against soccer names such as these, you may think they have their work cut out. But as one commentator pointed out, with the inclusion of leader Ryan Nelsen (FA Cup final experience with Blackburn Rovers), they may give the hosts China a run for second spot behind group favourites Brazil. Apparently however, Brazil have an awful Olympic record, this being the one international tournament they have never won, so with a little luck this group may be more open than many believe.
The NZ team (from the Soccer New Zealand website) includes Rodney footballer Ian Hogg. So we wish them all the luck in overcoming the host country and getting the Kiwi's off to a fantastic start. The Football Ferns almost did it last night so lets see if the Oly-Whites can go one better.
Tune into your Olympic station TVOne tonight at 11.45pm to catch the action.
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