New Zealand coach Darren Bazeley praised the All Whites’ disciplined defensive effort after they narrowly lost 2-1 to Japan in the Kirin Cup final in Tokyo.
Facing the 17th-ranked hosts before 67,000 fans, the All Whites adopted a five-man defence and spent long periods containing Japanese pressure, with goalkeeper Alex Paulsen making nine saves.
Ayase Ueda opened the scoring in the 28th minute, but Ben Old equalised three minutes later with an impressive right-footed finish after captain Chris Wood launched a sharp counter-attack. New Zealand remained compact and difficult to break down, raising hopes of taking the final to a penalty shootout, before Ritsu Doan scored Japan’s decisive second goal in the 71st minute.
Bazeley said he was proud of his players’ work rate and ability to frustrate a highly ranked opponent, while acknowledging the disappointment of losing so late with penalties within reach.
