The All Whites coach Ricki Herbert is lamenting his side's uncharacteristically poor defensive effort in the wake of their 5-1 loss to Mexico in their opening World Cup qualifier in Mexico City.
The prospect of New Zealand qualifying for next year's World Cup in Brazil has all but evaporated with the four goal advantage Mexico now have leading into week's return leg in Wellington.
Herbert says they were outplayed by Mexico who showed why they are ranked 50 places higher than New Zealand.
He says New Zealand side's have always prided themselves on their defensive effort and the All Whites let themselves down in that area.
The All Whites' only goal was scored late in the game by midfielder Chris James.
