New Zealand Falls 3-1 to Venezuela in Marbella Friendly

MARBELLA, Spain (AP) — The Ford Football Ferns opened their European tour with a 3-1 defeat against Venezuela in an international friendly on Sunday, exposing defensive vulnerabilities ahead of their June 3 rematch.

Venezuela’s Deyna Castellanos broke the deadlock in the 25th minute, capitalizing on a defensive lapse. New Zealand responded through Katie Kitching, who pounced on a turnover forced by the Ferns’ high press to equalize in the 36th minute.

The South Americans regained control before halftime via Mariana Romero’s clinical finish (43’), then sealed victory with Malanie Chirinos’ 86th-minute strike from distance.

Key Match Moments

• 25’ – Castellanos slots home after a defensive error.

• 36’ – Kitching scores from a rebound after initial save.

• 43’ – Romero finishes a right-wing cross from García.

• 86’ – Chirinos fires a 25-yard dagger past NZ keeper.

Coach Michael Mayne made five second-half substitutions, including introducing veterans Betsy Hassett and Rebekah Stott, but New Zealand failed to convert possession dominance into goals.

Post-Match Reactions

Mayne acknowledged systemic defensive issues:

“Conceding three similar goals is frustrating. Two were excellent finishes, but we lacked urgency in our box. We’ll review and improve for Tuesday.”

Despite the loss, he highlighted positives:

“Our press created chances, and the new system showed promise. We’re one or two passes away from breaking teams down.”

Looking Ahead

The Ferns face Venezuela again on June 3 (4am NZT, live on FIFA+). Mayne emphasized rapid improvement:

“As a senior team, we must perform regardless of cycle timing. Players are hungry to respond.”