New Zealand put in a spirited performance against the Netherlands but came up just short as the European champions score an injury time winner to take all three points.
It took until the 92nd minute for substitute Jill Roord to eventually break through the resolute New Zealand defence and open the scoring. It was such a heartbreaking moment for a New Zealand side who not only defended well, but had their own chances to win the game too.
Early in the first half, Olivia Chance came inches from opening the scoring as she saw her effort strike the crossbar. Into the second period, they again saw chances go begging as their counter-attacking style caused problems in the Dutch defence.
Netherlands squeak past New Zealand
However, with 70% possession and 16 shots to New Zealand’s five, Holland were good value for their win in the end. Arsenal strike Vivianne Miedema could’ve had at least a hat-trick as the Dutch saw chance after chance go begging.
Ultimately, Holland will join Canada at the top of the Group E table as they match their North American rivals opening result. The two sides face off against each other in the final Group E game of the tournament on June 20th. You would expect both to win their second group games and thus make their clash a crucial group decider. As ever, you can catch it live on BBC.
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