Diz double leaves New Zealand facing uphill battle at FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup

A brace from Argentina striker Mercedes Diz has condemned New Zealand to a second successive defeat at FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup 2026™ in Morocco.

The 2-0 loss leaves the Young Football Ferns on the brink of elimination, needing victory over Germany in their final Group A match on Saturday (NZT) to keep their Round of 16 hopes alive.

Argentina dominated from the outset, creating numerous chances before Diz headed home in the 42^nd minute to open the scoring. She doubled the lead with a powerful volley in the 69^th minute to seal a comfortable victory – Argentina’s first at a FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.

Following a 4-0 opening defeat to hosts Morocco, New Zealand’s remaining route to the knockout rounds appears to be as one of the four best third placed team, who progress alongside the top two teams in each group.

Argentina: 2 (Mercedes DIZ 42’ 69’)
New Zealand: 0

HT: 1-0
Photo credit: FIFA via Getty Images