Namibia coach Allister Coetzee urged his players to relish Friday night’s Group A encounter with New Zealand as a chance to improve their rugby skills.
The African minnows - who are still seeking their first win at the World Cup in six tournament appearances - enter the game on the back of a heavy opening day loss to Italy.
"We knew when the draw was made that we would struggle being in a pool with top quality teams such as Italy, New Zealand and France," said Coetzee.
"But this is not something that scares us. It is something we get excited about.
"It’s a great opportunity for our players," added the 60-year-old South African.
"We're really excited about playing against the best in the world.
"We are trying to grow as as team and as individuals so we must use this game as an experience to develop our game."
New Zealand boss Ian Foster has made nine starting line-up changes for the tie at the Stade de Toulouse with Nepo Laulala, Sam Whitelock, Dalton Papali’i, Ardie Savea, Beauden Barrett and Anton Lienert-Brown all retaining their places.
Happy
"I'm glad to see that New Zealand are taking this game seriously," added Coetzee.
"They have selected a quality side and its good for the rugby World Cup that the leading teams are not putting out under-strength sides."
Foster's decision should lead to another big defeat for the Namibians who take on France next Thursday in Marseille.
"It was 31-8 to Italy in the 73rd minute," Coetzee recalled of his side's opening match in Saint-Etienne.
"We conceded three tries in the last eight minutes of the game which meant the scoreline blew up a bit.
"But in general I think we threw a couple of punches against Italy ... we just have to throw a few more punches because we’re not there to be punching bags.
"We’ve got a plan and even when the pressure is on, my players have got to execute the plan. Its’s going to be a challenge but its one we are ready for."
Tough
New Zealand's defence coach Scott McLeod said his team expected a direct approach from the Namibians.
"If you look at the type of people they are and where they come from – mainly a farming background ... we know we'e going to get a physical battle."
New Zealand will be attempting to atone for their opening day loss to France on 8 September at the Stade de France. The defeat came after they were beaten by South Africa in their final warm-up game for the competition.
"Losing is not ideal," said New Zealand forward Luke Jacobsen. "It is not what we want or set out to do.
"We didn’t get all what we wanted to do quite right against France but the good thing is we're in a tournament. We have got another game and there’s time to get better."
