Today we’re looking at a controversy that has made international headlines — New Zealand’s women’s football team canceling a friendly match in Taiwan due to poor field conditions. The incident has sparked strong reactions at home and abroad and raised serious questions about how Taiwan prepares for international sporting events.
This match was supposed to be a proud moment. Taiwan had invited New Zealand to participate in the 2025 International Women's Friendly Tournament, with the match scheduled for April 8th at Nanzih Football Stadium in Kaohsiung. But after inspecting the field, New Zealand's team made a decision that shocked many — they withdrew from the game, citing player safety concerns due to the condition of the pitch.
According to the New Zealand Football Association, the grass surface was uneven and failed to meet the basic standards for international competition. Despite efforts by local groundskeepers to improve the conditions, the team felt the risk of injury was too high to proceed. The cancellation was immediate and public.
The reaction in Taiwan has been sharp. Some former officials have called it a “national embarrassment.” On social media, many fans expressed frustration, not with New Zealand, but with the lack of preparation and professionalism on the host side. And they’re not wrong to feel that way.
So what went wrong?
First, infrastructure. While Taiwan has invested in baseball and basketball, football has long taken a back seat. Many football fields are outdated or maintained only for local use. Hosting an international match — especially against a high-level team like New Zealand — demands more than just enthusiasm. It requires planning, quality control, and international-standard facilities.
Second, coordination and accountability. Did the Taiwanese football association perform adequate field inspections before inviting New Zealand? Was there a backup venue available? These are standard steps in international sports planning. The absence of clear contingency plans shows a lack of risk management — something that cannot happen when national reputation is on the line.
Third, perception and trust. Taiwan is working hard to be seen as a responsible host on the global stage. Whether it’s cultural events, international forums, or sports, these opportunities allow the world to see Taiwan’s professionalism and hospitality. A failed football match — especially one canceled for safety reasons — does long-term damage to that image.
So, what needs to change?
Taiwan must take infrastructure seriously. That means long-term investment in football fields, drainage systems, turf quality, and lighting. Not just for show, but for regular, year-round use. National and local governments should work with sporting federations to build venues that meet international expectations, not just domestic ones.
Professional event management must become the norm, not the exception. That includes having international consultants for venue checks, advance communication with visiting teams, and backup venues in case of emergencies.
And most importantly, Taiwan needs to believe that it belongs in global sport — and act like it. Hosting an international match isn’t just about welcoming another team. It’s about creating a professional, safe, and respectful environment for athletes, staff, and fans.
This was a missed opportunity. But it doesn’t have to be a lasting failure — if we’re willing to learn, improve, and hold ourselves to a higher standard.
inspection：檢查、巡查
Proper field inspections should be done before hosting international matches.
在舉辦國際賽事前，應進行適當的場地檢查。
accountability：責任、問責
Lack of accountability in planning led to this international embarrassment.
缺乏規劃中的責任制度，導致了這場國際醜聞。
contingency：應變措施、備案
There should always be a contingency plan in case the venue is not suitable.
若場地不合格，應該有備用方案。
professionalism：專業態度
International events require a high level of professionalism from the host country.
舉辦國際賽事需要主辦國展現高度的專業水準。
