Photo Credit: Harriet Lander – FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images

Darren Bazeley’s New Zealand have been outclassed by the USA in their second Group A match at the Paris Olympics, losing 4-1 in Marseille.

New Zealand 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 nice turn inside the box fired home a consolation goal for the Kiwis 12 minutes from full-time.

The Oly Whites went into the match knowing a result would secure a place in the quarter-finals after beating Guinea 2-1 in their opening match, but they made the worst possible start when captain Matthew Garbett brought down Nathan Harriel inside the box in the 8th 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 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.

USA 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 hapless Alex Paulsen in the New Zealand goal.

The New Zealanders enjoyed plenty of possession at times but were unable to conjure up many opportunities.

USA, who 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 Aarons0n. The USA spurned several more chances but couldn’t add to their tally.

While Randall’s late strike was impressive, the result and performance will be deeply disappointing for coach Bazeley and his players who now need to get up for next week’s final group game against the tournament hosts and favourites, France.

New Zealand: 1 (Jesse RANDALL 78’)
United States of America: 4 (Djordie MIHAILOVIC (P) 8’, Walker ZIMMERMAN 12’, Gianluca BUSIO 30’, Paxten AARONSON 58’)

HT 0-3