The All Whites have completed their build-up to the FIFA Confederations Cup with a 1-nil loss to Belarus in Minsk.
Kosta Barbarouses Photo: PHOTOSPORT
The match made history as it was the first 'A' international between the two sides, after they had previously met at the London Olympics in 2012.
The All Whites were looking for the ideal preparation for the 'Tournament of Champions' where they will face hosts Russia in St Petersburg in five days' time but were left frustrated by a determined performance from Belarus.
After an entertaining first half, the home side went ahead in the 46th minute through a superb finish from Dzianis Paliakou at the back post in what proved to be the defining moment of the match.
All Whites coach Anthony Hudson made three changes from the team which went down 1-0 to Northern Ireland 10 days ago in Belfast. Shane Smeltz, Themi Tzimopolous and Deklan Wynne all came in for Clayton Lewis, Tommy Smith and Tom Doyle respectively.
The All Whites travel back to St Petersburg tomorrow to complete their preparations for the FIFA Confederations Cup.
They will be appearing in the tournament for a fourth time and will face Russia, Mexico and Portugal.
