USA thrash New Zealand in Group A clash

After facing a tough challenge in their opening match against the gold medal favorites France and suffering a 3-0 defeat, the United States quickly took control of the game.

Just seven minutes into the match, Matthew Garbett's foul on Nathan Harriel in the penalty area resulted in a penalty kick.

Despite the pressure to make up for missed opportunities against France, Djordje Mihailovic confidently converted the penalty with a well-placed shot down the middle, sending the goalkeeper the wrong way.

The Americans extended their lead five minutes later, capitalizing on defensive errors by New Zealand. Mihailovic's free kick from the right flank caused chaos in the penalty area, leading to a weak parry by the goalkeeper.

Walker Zimmerman reacted quickly to pounce on the loose ball and score, increasing New Zealand's concerns of a heavy defeat.

The OlyWhites made a decision to turn the match into a game at that moment, but were ultimately denied a penalty despite a VAR review when Harriel seemed to foul Sarpreet Singh.

Gianluca Busio, not showing any mercy towards the New Zealanders, practically secured the United States' victory at the half-hour mark.

The third goal was initiated by John Tolkin advancing down the left wing and delivering a cross to an unmarked Kevin Paredes.

Paredes then passed to Busio, who scored past Paulsen after his initial shot was blocked, compounding the misery for New Zealand following their win against Guinea.

With the match already decided, the only question was 'how many'. The answer came just before the hour mark, as a long ball upfield confused Finn Surman, leading to a failed clearance attempt.

Surman's mistake allowed Griffin Yow to break through and pass back to Paxten Aaronson, who scored through the defender's legs into the OlyWhites' net.

This added to the woes of New Zealand, although they managed to score a consolation goal through Jesse Randall, who turned and shot high into the top-right corner after a precise pass from Garbett.

The Kiwis' goal prevented the US men's team from achieving only their second Olympic shutout since 2000, but it was a minor detail for the Americans after a performance that showcased their ability to capitalize on opponent mistakes in the attacking third.

Now firmly in control, the United States aims to secure the title of 'best of the rest' behind the favored France.