![3 Jay Herdman of New Zealand faces Bangaly Cisse of Guinea in an Olympic football competition.](https://nzfijitimes.co.nz/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/3-1-696x472.jpg)
New Zealand secured a 2-1 victory in the men’s football tournament in Nice, France, with a late Ben Waine goal.
The team had a chance to score when a penalty was awarded after Guinea goalkeeper Soumaila Sylla was brought down in the area.
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Captain Matt Garbett’s effort was dragged wide, but Garbett made amends by driving into the box and finishing low under the keeper to break the deadlock.
Guinea, having had an earlier effort disallowed, scored their first men’s Olympic goal since 1968 in the 72nd minute.
Amadou Diawara’s powerful shot from the edge of the box scored, and New Zealand’s resilience and determination were evident.
The team’s victory marked the start of their campaign in France, securing three crucial points.
Despite the setback, the New Zealand team showed resilience and determination, securing their first men’s Olympic goal since 1968.
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