Five MLS players saw action in the first leg of the World Cup qualification playoff between New Zealand and Peru on Friday, a scoreless draw between the countries in Wellington.
Vancouver Whitecaps goalkeeper Stefan Marinovic, Minnesota United defender Michael Boxall and San Jose Earthquakes defender Kip Colvey went the full 90 for the All Whites, while Portland Timbers defender/midfielder Bill Tuiloma played 12 minutes off the bench for the hosts.
Orlando City midfielder Yoshimar Yotun played 86 minutes and picked up a yellow card for Peru, while Vancouver attacker Yordy Reyna didn’t play for the South American side.
Both sides carved out a few decent looks at goal, with Marinovic coming up with several big saves and Boxall clearing a chance with a bicycle kick.
In addition to the five MLS players who took the field in the match, an MLS officiating crew oversaw the contest. Mark Geiger served as referee, assistants Joe Fletcher and Frank Anderson manned the sidelines and Jair Marrufo was the fourth official.
Peru will host New Zealand in Lima in the playoff return leg on Wednesday. New Zealand will force extra time with a scoreless draw and win the series with a win or draw featuring any goals. Peru will clinch a berth in next summer’s World Cup in Russia with a win.
