New Zealand women reached the quarter-finals of the Olympic football tournament after overcoming bottom-placed Cameroon in a Group E clash at the City of Coventry Stadium.

The Kiwis qualified, despite losing their opening two games to Brazil and Great Britain, as one of the two best third-placed sides along with Canada.

The success meant North Korea were eliminated after their defeat against the United States earlier in the day handed New Zealand a lifeline which they grabbed in emphatic style.

New Zealand dominated the opening half and Cameroon goalkeeper Annette Ngo Ndom produced a fine save to turn Katie Hoyle's swerving shot against the post.

Annalie Longo had a close-range attempt deflected over the bar before the Kiwi pressure finally paid off after 43 minutes.

A deep corner from Ria Percival was headed home at the far post by captain Rebecca Smith for her side's first goal in the tournament.

New Zealand doubled their lead three minutes into the second half. Rosie White took the ball wide of Ngo Ndom and a low cross was turned into her own net by Cameroon defender Augustine Ejangue.

White was again the creator after 62 minutes when her cross was headed in by Sarah Gregorious.

Gabrielle Onguene scored a consolation goal after 75 minutes but Cameroon finished without a point from their three games and conceded 11 goals in the process.