Ryan Nelsen will be hoping to lead his country to the World Cup finals on Saturday when New Zealand take on Bahrain in their World Cup qualification play-off.

After a goalless draw in the first leg in Manama, Bahrain, New Zealand go into the Wellington clash knowing a win will send them to South Africa.

And for the Rovers and Kiwi captain, the chance to help New Zealand reach the World Cup finals for only the second time in their history is huge.

"The whole of New Zealand will be willing us to the finals," said the Rovers captain.

"The game is a 40,000 sell-out and it is creating huge interest.

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

"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."