History was made tonight in Kashima, Japan as the Men’s Olympic Football Team beat Republic of Korea 1-0 to claim their first ever win at The Games. 

A second half goal for Chris Wood sealed the win on a night to remember at the Ibaraki Kashima Stadium. The goal was originally ruled offside but the decision was overruled by VAR to give The NZ Team the lead in the 70^th minute. 

“It’s obviously a historic win. It’s a big moment for the game in New Zealand.” said Head Coach Danny Hay after the game. 

“I think we have been starting to show over recent times that we are capable of competing on the international stage at FIFA tournaments. 

“But obviously getting a result like this over the number one ranked side in Asia, at a pinnacle event like the Olympic Games, is massive for us.”

The team next face Honduras on Sunday 25 July (5pm Japan / 8pm NZ) before their final group game against Romania on Wednesday 28 July (5:30pm Japan / 8:30pm NZ). 

Article added: Thursday 22 July 2021

Check out our Football Whānau Olympic Hub for behind the scene images, upcoming fixtures, match results, videos, and so much more. Visit here.