The two teams meet today as New Zealand look to bounce back from their 3-2 defeat by the Olyroos on Saturday.

Jacobs is not looking for a gentle stroll in the park and welcomes the test the Mariners will pose.

He said: "They're always a good side and they've got a reputation for being one of the fittest sides at the start of the season.

"They beat Newcastle Jets 3-0 the other day, so you know they're in pretty good nick."

Host nation China is first on the agenda in Group C, followed by the daunting challenge of Brazil and finally Belgium, a game which New Zealand will have to do without the services of Premier League star Ryan Nelsen as he heads back to Blackburn duties.

Jacobs said: "We have to take the opportunity to give everyone time on the pitch and keep on making progress in taking care of the ball - especially further forward.

"Our in-possession play against Australia was a bit frantic at times but we've made some slight adjustments and it'll be a good test of those.

"It's good timing for us though. We had a tough game against the Olyroos and some hard training sessions since then so the Mariners game will be another good work out."

Following the Mariners clash, the Oly-Whites travel to Jakarta to acclimatise and play three more warm-up matches before arriving in Beijing.