Big news for Wrexham fans and New Zealand supporters alike—Liberato Cacace is heading to the World Cup. The 25-year-old left wing-back has been officially named in New Zealand's squad for the 2026 tournament, marking a major milestone in a season that's been anything but smooth sailing for him.
Injuries have limited Cacace to just 13 appearances for the Welsh club this season since his move from Italian side Empoli last year. He hasn't featured in a match since February, though he did make the bench for Wrexham's final two Championship games—a sign that he's been working his way back to full fitness just in time for the biggest stage in football.
For Cacace, this call-up is a testament to his resilience. Despite limited game time at club level, his talent and potential have clearly caught the eye of New Zealand's coaching staff. He'll join a squad that includes familiar names like Nottingham Forest striker Chris Wood and Braintree Town defender Tommy Smith—both of whom are set to make history as the first New Zealanders to play at two World Cups, having previously represented the All Whites in South Africa back in 2010.
Speaking of 2010, that tournament was a landmark moment for New Zealand. Competing at a World Cup for only the second time after their debut in 1982, they held their own against Italy, Slovakia, and Paraguay—earning respectable draws in all three group matches—but ultimately fell short of the knockout stages. Now, 16 years later, they're back and ready to write a new chapter.
New Zealand's group stage draw for 2026 is a tough one: they'll face Belgium, Egypt, and Iran. But with a mix of experienced campaigners like Wood and Smith, and hungry newcomers like Cacace, they'll be looking to make a deeper run this time around. The tournament, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, kicks off on June 11 and runs through July 19.
Before the World Cup, the All Whites have a couple of key friendlies to sharpen their form. They'll take on Haiti on June 3, followed by a high-profile clash against England in Tampa, Florida, on June 6. For Cacace, these matches will be crucial to prove he's ready to compete at the highest level—and for Wrexham fans, it's a proud moment to see one of their own representing his country on the global stage.