Former MK Dons and Luton academy player Max Crocombe makes World Cup debut with New Zealand

Former MK Dons and Luton academy player Max Crocombe made his debut in a World Cup as he featured for New Zealand against Iran.

The 32-year-old played the whole game as New Zealand drew 2-2 with Iran in Los Angeles, in a result that saw both games in Group G begin as stalemates after Belgium and Egypt drew 1-1 earlier that day.

Crocombe was unable to keep a clean sheet in the game, with the Millwall keeper conceding in the 32nd and 64th minute as New Zealand settled for a draw in their first World Cup appearance since 2010.

In a brief statement on Instagram, Crocombe said, “First point on the board 💪🏼 Honour to represent 🇳🇿 on the big stage”

Born in New Zealand, Crocombe moved to England as a youngster and attended school in Milton Keynes. The goalkeeper spent time on the books of both the Dons and Luton Town, but failed to make a first-team appearance for either.

As a teenager, the defender enjoyed a breakout spell in non-league with Buckingham Town, where he caught the attention of an Oxford United scout and joined the U’s.

Crocombe spent time on the books of Carlisle, Salford, Australian A-league sides Brisbane Roar and Melbourne Victory, Grimsby Town and Burton Albion before leaving the latter to join Millwall in 2025.

The cap was Crocombe’s 25th for the New Zealand national team, with the Oceanic side next in action when they take on Egypt in Vancouver in a game that will take place in the early hours of Monday morning (22/06) UK time.