The Ford Football Ferns have fallen to a frustrating 2-1 defeat to Haiti this morning in Spain.

The result was New Zealand's first defeat in five matches.

The friendly played in Malaga was the first time these two nations had met in women’s international football and after the All Whites’ maiden encounter with Haiti earlier this week.

After a cagey opening quarter where half chances fell to both sides, Haiti grew into the contest although were unable to formulate any concrete chances.

In fact, it looked like it’d be goalless at the break until a deep free kick in the 41^st minute from Michaela Foster found Claudia Bunge in the Haitian box. The defender burying her header into the back of the net to open the scoring.

The goal was Bunge’s second international strike.

The Haitian response was almost immediate with New Zealand goalkeeper Alina Santos forced into action minutes after the opener.

Haiti pilled on the pressure in the dying minutes of the first half, eventually getting their desired result seconds before the halftime whistle. Haitian skipper Nerilia Mondesir guiding in a freekick from the right-hand touchline in stoppage time.

The second half started in the worst possible fashion for the Ferns, with Haiti turning the scoreline around through another set piece move which was latched on at the back post by Lourdjina Etienne in 47^th minute.

From there, Haiti were able to control the pace of the game with the scoreline in their favour, much to the Ford Football Ferns’ frustration who were unable to create chances for much of the second half.

New Zealand did manage to muster a flurry of late attacks though, all thwarted by the Haiti goalkeeper and defence.

The Ford Football Ferns’ next match in Malaga is against Morocco on 10 June with kick off at 4am NZT and will be available live and free on TVNZ+.

Article added: Saturday 06 June 2026