The All Whites have escaped with a 1-1 draw against Repubic of Congo in their international friendly in Spain, courtesy of a late Chris Wood penalty.
New Zealand conceded a goal in the opening minute of the second half, when a defensive mix-up between Liberato Cacace and goalkeeper Nik Tzanev saw the African side take the lead through Cedric Bakambu.
They appeared on course for victory, until Congolese defender Gedeon Kalulu was deemed to have pushed Wood in the box.
The Nottingham Forest striker calmly slotted his spot-kick to salvage a draw in the 91st minute.
The All Whites had one final opportunity to snatch an unlikely win against their opponents - ranked 40 places above them by FIFA - but Max Mata's header on goal was repelled by goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi.
Playing his first match for New Zealand in almost two years, midfielder Sarpreet Singh was the standout, while defender Michael Boxall was robust at the back.
The All Whites now travel to London to face Australia on Wednesday.
