Blackburn captain Ryan Nelsen believes New Zealand are ready for their biggest game in 27 years.

They face Bahrain in Wellington on Saturday with the scores locked at 0-0 after the first leg of the World Cup play-off.

New Zealand last got to the finals in 1982 and Nelsen said: "The game is a 40,000 sell-out - it is creating huge interest.

"I haven't had the opportunity to play in too many big games for New Zealand but this promises to be something special and I can't wait.

"If we were to reach the finals for only the second time in our history, it would be absolutely massive for football in New Zealand.

"It would inspire a whole new generation and encourage more youngsters to stay in the game."