'It brings tears to my eyes': Football icon Ryan Nelsen on Kiwi A-League rivalry

Former All Whites captain and Kiwi football icon Ryan Nelsen joins Marty Devlin on the DSPN, for an enlightening chat about all things roundball football. First off, Ryan and Marty delve into the sold-out derby match at Auckland's Go Media Mount Smart Stadium this weekend between Auckland FC and the Wellington Phoenix, which could set an A-League regular season attendance record for a game in NZ if every ticket purchased turns up. They also explore the rise of professional pathways for Kiwi footballers, the invaluable role of the US collegiate system, and compare the developmental trajectories of New Zealand and Australian football. Ryan also touches on the expansion of the men's FIFA World Cup to 48 teams and its implications for global football growth. The conversation wraps up with appreciation for New Zealand's remarkable striker, Chris Wood, whose consistent performances in the Premier League are a rare achievement for a Kiwi. A recount of Ryan's experiences during the September 11 attacks adds a memorable touch to the conversation.   Website: https://www.rova.nz/podcasts/dspn Instagram: @martindevlin_dspn TikTok: @martindevlin_dspn YouTube: @DevlinSportsPodcastNetwork