Football
2019 FIFA Women's World Cup, Group Stage
NZL 
0
FT
 NED
1
Reuters 5y

Roord goal sees Netherlands edge New Zealand late

Substitute Jill Roord headed home a stoppage-time winner as the Netherlands finally broke down New Zealand's defence to emerge with a 1-0 triumph on Tuesday, as both countries began their women's World Cup finals campaign at Stade Oceane in Le Havre, France.

The European champions had numerous attempts at goal in a match marked by a myriad of missed chances before Roord headed in at the back post.

The double attacking threat of Lieke Martens and Vivianne Miedema failed to deliver despite periods of sustained pressure. New Zealand looked on course for a well-earned, unexpected point before conceding two minutes into stoppage time.

Dutch striker Martens had the first chance of the game, producing a good save from Kiwi goalkeeper Erin Nayler as a pattern of missed opportunities quickly began to emerge.

New Zealand hit the crossbar in the 11th minute when a shot from Olivia Chance went over the head of Dutch goalkeeper Sari van Veenendaal, who soon after had to turn away a long-range effort from Rosie White.

At the other end, Dominique Bloodworth missed a sitter from right in front of goal after a melee in the New Zealand penalty box on the stroke of half-time.

In the second half, Sarah Gregorius had a golden chance to put New Zealand ahead, but miscued her shot with only the keeper to beat. The Dutch took control for the last 15 minutes of the game, relentlessly attacking the opposing defence before finally scoring.

Netherlands now share top place with Canada, who edged Cameroon 1-0 in Montpellier on Monday in Group E's opening game.

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