‘Internet sensation’ Tim Payne will make his FIFA World Cup debut after being named in New Zealand’s starting line-up against Iran in a Group G match on Tuesday.
The All Whites defender shot to fame after Argentinian social media star Valen Scarsini chose his name ahead of the World Cup and asked his followers to make him famous.
Payne, who plays for Wellington Phoenix, has since amassed almost six million followers on Instagram.
New Zealand coach Darren Bazeley said on the eve of the match against Iran that Payne’s success was not a distraction.
«All I know is he’s got a song and there’s been a lot of attention, but you know, Payney is a great kid. He’s handled it really well. I haven’t seen any difference in his attitude in camp or at practice.»
“From my standpoint, I have no problem with how that works,” Bazeley said.
All Whites forward Chris Wood said Payne’s newfound fame is beneficial for New Zealand.
«I think it’s great, I think it will encourage other countries to look at our team and get us excited. Who knows, we can become the second team for most countries around the world and that will only bring us goodness.»
Published on June 16, 2026
