Hosts Chile have struck deep into stoppage time to snatch a 2-1 victory over New Zealand in their FIFA U-20 World Cup opener in Santiago.
In front of 45,000 fans, Ian Garguez broke the Oceania champions hearts in the 97th minute after confusion in the New Zealand defence. Chris Greenacre’s side looked set for a hard-earned point after substitute Nathan Walker won, and converted, a penalty in the 84th minute following a Video Support System review.
Earlier, Lautaro Millan had given Chile the lead in the 54th minute, punishing a sloppy New Zealand pass with a clinical finish.
Despite the intimidating atmosphere, New Zealand started brightly. Keegan Kelly tested Chile’s keeper Sebastian Mella early, before Codey Phoenix and Fergus Gillian both came close. At the other end, defender James Bulkeley made a crucial last-ditch tackle to deny Emiliano Ramos just before halftime.
New Zealand nearly struck immediately after the break. Kelly’s header rattled the post before Mella twice denied Phoenix in quick succession. But against the run of play, Millan’s strike put Chile ahead, shifting momentum to the hosts.
Keeper Henry Gray kept New Zealand in the contest with some sharp saves before Walker’s penalty gave the Junior All Whites hope.
With the match seemingly heading for a draw, New Zealand failed to clear their lines in the dying seconds, allowing Garguez to pounce and spark wild celebrations in the packed stadium.
New Zealand, who have reached the knockout stages in each of the last four tournaments, must quickly regroup ahead of their second Group A clash against Egypt on Wednesday (NZT).
Oceania’s other representative at the tournament, New Caledonia, kicks off its campaign on Tuesday (NZT) against the United States.
CHILE 2 (Lautaro MILAN 54’ Ian GARGUEZ 90+7)
NEW ZEALAND 1 (Nathan Walker 84’)
HT 0-0