NZ break losing Confederations Cup record

The All Whites broke their losing Confederations Cup record with a 0-0 draw with Iraq at Ellis Park in Johannesburg, South Africa, this morning.

New Zealand, who had previously never won or drawn a Confederations Cup match, were eliminated from the tournament after a loss to South Africa on Thursday, but had hoped for a good performance against the Asian champions today.

The New Zealand side came into the game attacking aggressively, claiming the majority of the possession and taking several shots at goal, but were unable to find the back of the net.

Keeper Glen Moss was forced to come forward to prevent a goal from Iraqi striker Emad Mohammed just 11 minutes into the match, but New Zealand dominated the goal attempts for the remainder of the half.

An on-goal header from Chris Killen called Iraqi keeper Mohamed Kassid into action in the 33rd minute, followed by a straight shot from Jeremy Brockie in the 40th minute which was also saved.

With Iraq defending strongly, the teams went into the half-time break tied 0-0.

Back on the field, a reinvigorated Iraq fought back with an increase in goal attempts, although they were still unable to find a way to the net.

In the 87th minute, Moss deflected a shot on-goal from Iraq creating an opportunity for a goal at the other end which was muffed by Shane Smeltz.

A minute later, Iraq had a dangerous free kick from just outside the penalty area but sent it skywards.

Under pressure in the final moments of the match, Moss managed to save three shots, making the final score 0-0.

Speaking after the game, Moss said the team was more than happy with the draw, adding that they would go down in New Zealand soccer history as the first to get a point at the tournament.

"It's a pretty proud moment to be honest .

"We really wanted to play with a bit of pride tonight and show everyone that we can play in this competition and we should be here," he said.

"People have got to remember we don't come up against quality opposition in our region that often so, when we do come to a tournament like this, it's a big eye-opener."

The result pushes Iraq out of the Group A semi-final which is now to be played between host country South Africa and Spain.