The Football Ferns have netted a late goal to earn a 1-0 win over Mexico in their friendly at Los Angeles on Saturday (NZ time).
In the 84th minute of play, defender CJ Bott blasted home the decisive goal, as the team overcame the late withdrawal of stars Hannah Wilkinson and Grace Jale due to COVID-19 to secure their first victory of 2022.
Before Saturday's match-winner, left-back Bott - who plays for England WSL side Leicester City - had only scored once in 35 appearances for New Zealand. She hadn't featured for the Football Ferns since the SheBelieves Cup back in Februrary.
The goal was just reward for the Ferns, who created the most scoring chances and controlled possession and territory.
The match took place behind closed doors and wasn't broadcast, after host association Mexico failed to organise coverage.
Mexico didn't qualify for next year's Women's World Cup in New Zealand and Australia, and sit No. 36 in FIFA's international rankings - 14 spots below New Zealand (No. 22).
The win was the second in 12 matches under new coach Jitka Klimkova, who last year inked a six-year deal with NZ Football.
The Ferns will remain in Los Angeles to face the Philippines on Wednesday.
