Chris Wood of New Zealand celebrates after scoring his sides first goal during the New Zealand All Whites v DR Congo International Men’s Football match at Estadio Nueva Condomina, Murcia, Spain on Friday 13 October 2023. Photo credit: Jose Breton / www.photosport.nz Photo: www.photosport.nz
The All Whites came from behind to snatch a late 1-all draw with the Democratic Republic of Congo in their international friendly in Spain.
DRC scored first through Cedric Bakambu who guided the ball into the back of the net early in the second half.
All Whites captain Chris Wood saved the day with the equaliser, hitting a late penalty with the clock running down in stoppage-time.
Wood's superb goal was his 34th at international level.
All Whites coach Darren Bazeley said the team created some decent chances against a quality side.
"The ball didn't quite fall for us, I feel we're progressing from our last tour to today," Bazeley said.
"There were some really good elements of our performance which were stepping forward.
"We fully deserved not to lose the game and showed some good character to come back from conceding."
Sarpreet Singh made a promising return wearing the Silver Fern.
"He's [Sarpreet] a really dangerous player and he is someone we've missed."
New Zealand play the Socceroos in London on Wednesday for the historic Soccer Ashes trophy at London's Gtech Community Stadium, home of English Premier League side Brentford.
- RNZ