Michael Woud Puts Wedding on Hold for World Cup Call-Up
Auckland FC goalkeeper Michael Woud has postponed his wedding after being named in New Zealand's 26-man squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Woud, 27, will serve as the All Whites' third-choice goalkeeper behind Max Crocombe and Alex Paulsen.
"My fiancée was incredibly supportive," Woud said of the decision to delay his marriage to partner Zana Renton.
Woud became engaged a year ago and had originally planned to marry during the World Cup period (June 11 to July 19). The wedding will now take place next year.
Background
Woud's path to the World Cup squad was not straightforward. He was initially dropped as Auckland FC's starting goalkeeper mid-season but was reinstated after Oliver Sail suffered a knee injury in January, ruling him out for the remainder of the A-League season and World Cup contention.
He played a key role in Auckland FC winning their first A-League championship, including:
- Making the only save in a penalty shootout during a playoff win over Melbourne City
- Keeping a clean sheet in the 1-0 Grand Final victory over Sydney FC
On his World Cup role
Woud said his role is "quite clear": to support the other goalkeepers and be ready if called upon.
New Zealand, the lowest-ranked team among the 48 nations at the World Cup, will face Iran, Egypt, and Belgium in the group stage.