KEY POINTS:
New Zealand came up short in their opening match of the men's under-20 World Cup soccer tournament in Canada today.
The Youth All Whites were not disgraced in going down 0-2 to two-time champions Portugal in Toronto to open their account in group C, which also features Gambia and Mexico.
The New Zealanders battled bravely against their highly touted opponents and stayed on level terms until the closing seconds of the first half, when Portugal's star midfielder Bruno Gama struck from a free kick.
From a spot just outside the box, Gama expertly chipped over a wall of New Zealand defenders and guided the ball into the top right-hand corner of the goal, giving goalkeeper Jason Spoonley no chance.
Portugal, several fulltime professionals compared to New Zealand's amateurs, continued to dominate possession in the second half.
They doubled their lead in the 60th minute from the penalty spot after an attacker was brought down in front of goal.
Gama stepped up to the spot and beat Spoonley as Portugal threatened to run away with the game.
But the New Zealanders held firm, repulsing any number of Portuguese attacks, with Spoonley kept extra busy at the back.
The New Zealanders missed their best opportunity to respond in the 66th minute when a clever through ball from Daniel Keat found Jeremy Brockie, whose attempt hit the side netting.
Brockie had another chance in the 88th minute, only to chip over the crossbar from close range.
New Zealand's next match is against Gambia on Thursday.
Portugal 2 (Bruno Gama 2) New Zealand 0. Halftime: 1-0.
- NZPA
