The New Zealand women's soccer team lost 0-1 to Olympic hosts China in Guangzhou last night.
Showing little sign of jetlag and a lack of preparation, New Zealand recovered from a defensive error that enabled China to take a 15th minute lead to test the World Cup quarterfinalists.
The Football Ferns enjoyed a bigger share of possession and territory than the home side in the second half but couldn't score a goal.
"It's very disappointing. Our girls dominated the second half. We pushed for a goal, created chances and put a lot of pressure on them," New Zealand coach John Herdman said.
"We've worked hard in the two trainings we've had since we arrived and have done extremely well against a side that's been in camp for a full month."
China's new French coach Elisabeth Loisel started nine players from the recent World Cup squad, including star striker Han Duan.
Substitute Simone Carmichael went closest to scoring for New Zealand, but her curling effort shaved the post midway through the second half.
Herdman applauded the attacking influence of captain Hayley Moorwood and some timely saves from Jenny Bindon but reserved his biggest plaudits for his younger contingent.
"The likes of Abby Erceg are now showing the benefit of experience. We had five under-20s on the pitch and they're starting to lap up these sort of situations. Nothing fazes them," Herdman said.
