The OlyWhites have been well-beaten by a fired up United States in their second Group A match at the Paris Olympics losing 4-1 in Marseille.
The New Zealand side conceded three goals in the first half hour and were never able to recover. The Americans added a fourth goal in the 58th minute before Jesse Randall with a turn inside the box fired home a consolation goal 12 minutes from full-time.
LATEST HEADLINES:
The OlyWhites went into the match knowing a result would secure a place in the quarter-finals after beating Guinea 2-1 in their opening match.
However they made the worst possible start when captain Matthew Garbett brought down Nathan Harriel inside the box in the eighth minute and Djordie Mikailovic converted from the penalty spot.
Four minutes later the US doubled their lead with a scrappy goal from Walker Zimmerman after the New Zealand defence looked static and failed to clear inside their box.
New Zealand’s best chance came midway through the first half through Garbett when his powerful shot from outside the box forced the American goalkeeper into a strong save and Tyler Bindon headed the rebound over the bar.
The United States had their third inside 30 minutes when John Tolkin got in behind the New Zealand defence and crossed into the danger area for Gianluca Busio to blast the ball past a Alex Paulsen in the New Zealand goal.
The New Zealanders had plenty of possession at times but were unable to create opportunities.
The USA, had been thumped 3-0 by hosts France in their opening game, stepped up the pressure in the second half and scored their fourth goal in the 58th minute through Paxton Aaronson.
While Randall’s late strike was impressive, the result and performance will be deeply disappointing for coach Darren Bazeley and his players who now face tournament hosts and favourites, France.
New Zealand: 1 (Jesse Randall) United States of America: 4 (Djordie Mihailovic (P), Walker Zimmerman, Gianluca Busio, Paxten Aaronson) HT 0-3