England had to come from behind before defeating New Zealand 2-1 in this Group B encounter in Dresden. England enjoyed the early territorial advantage but were then stunned as New Zealand took the lead in the 18th minute. Sarah Gregorius arrived unmarked in the England penalty area to force home Amber Hearn's cross.
The Kiwis held on to their advantage until half-time for despite Hope Powell's team continuing to press it was their Antipodean opponents who came closest to increasing their lead on the break.
England got back on to level term just after the hour mark when Alex Scott's cross was headed home by Jill Scott.
The game now ebbed and flowed with both teams creating chances to clinch the winner, but with nine minutes remaining it was England who edged ahead.
Jill Scott turned provider with a sublime through ball which Jessica Clarke hammered past Kiwi's keeper Jenny Bindon.
The Ferns pressed for an equaliser but it was England who should have extended their lead before the final whistle which brought relief to Hope Powell.
