The New Zealand women’s football team suffered their second successive defeat at the Olympics when Colombia beat them 2-0 in Lyon.
The Colombians, who pushed one of the favoured teams, France, close the other day, were too skilled for New Zealand.
They scored their first goal through Marecla Restrepo in the 27th minute and continued to press strongly. Spirited New Zealand defence and a busy goalie in Anna Leat held the Colombians at bay until the 72nd minute, when Lucy Santos made it 2-0.
The statistics of the match reflect the Colombians’ superiority. They had 17 shots at goal compared to New Zealand’s five, nine corners to two and enjoyed nearly 70 percent of the possession.
Things don’t get any easier for New Zealand from here. After their defeats by Canada and now Colombia, they now run into France in their final pool match.