New Zealand put in an improved showing but couldn't crack the Chilean defence as they lost 1-0 in the second and final international near Santiago today.
A 37th minute goal from Chilean striker Eduardo Rubio saw the hosts clean sweep the two-match series after their 4-1 victory this morning.
Chile, who narrowly missed World Cup qualification and are ranked 67 in the world to New Zealand's 115, again had the better of today's match.
But the score was kept to a respectable margin by solid New Zealand defence and some excellent first half saves from goalkeeper Glen Moss.
All Whites coach Ricki Herbert made just one change to his starting 11, with Belgium-based Kris Bouckenooghe replacing defender Che Bunce.
The pitch at La Calera, north of Santiago, was hardly conducive to free-flowing soccer with the bumpy, grassy surface causing problems for both sides.
But it seemed the hosts would quickly take control in the first half through the deeds of their standout striker Jorge Valdivia who combined expertly with Rubio.
Two Valdivia through balls inside the first 10 minutes saw Moss called on to save, but he was up to the task.
Late in the half the All Whites mounted several useful attacks, Steven Old and Leo Bertos both drawing free kicks near the penalty area.
Captain Danny Hay latched on to two headers but neither threatened goal.
Chile then stormed back, Valdivia pinching possession when Jeremy Christie failed to control the bouncing ball, then firing in a pinpoint cross which Rubio headed to Moss's right.
Noah Hickey, one of the All Whites' standouts in defence, then cleared off the line on the stroke of halftime to make it 1-0 at the break.
New Zealand grew in confidence and had their chances in an even second half, but there were precious few shots on goal.
Christie blasted over the bar in the 67th minute then New Zealand's best effort came from Tony Lochhead whose left foot thunderbolt from 20m went just wide with 10 minutes remaining.
New Zealand's next assignment is a big one against world giants Brazil in Geneva, Switzerland, on June 4, the South Americans' final leadup to the World Cup.
- NZPA
Soccer: Chile again too good for all Whites
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