New Zealand women's soccer team almost created a history to end their no-winning record in major international events, only to see their Olympic opener leveled in the last moment by Japan in north China's Qinhuangdao on Wednesday.

Kirsty Yallop opened the scoring for New Zealand when Japanese defender Yukari mistakenly avoided a cross.

In the 56th minute, Japanese defender Azusa Iwashimizu received a yellow card and also sent then-leading New Zealand a penalty. Amber Hearn extended the lead to 2-0.

However, only 16 minutes later, Japan was also awarded a penalty kick after New Zealand's defender Katie Hoyle pushed the Japanese side.

Aya Miyama sent the ball to the goalkeeper's far left corner.

In the 41st minute, however, Japan's captain Homare Sawa received a free kick and sent the ball into the net to make it 2-2.

(Xinhua News Agency August 6, 2008)