Northern Ireland fell behind after just three minutes in Varazdin as goalkeeper Jackie Burns fouled Ivana Rudelić in the box.
Lozna missed the resulting spot kick, but Oxtoby was pleased with his team’s response to the goal, with Simon Magill hitting the crossbar a few minutes after the opener.
Oxtoby added, “The advantage was that it had three minutes so we had the whole half and we hadn’t even really started.”
“We asked them to respond and in the first half we dominated the game and played really well, so I’m really pleased we did it and got the equalizer at the end.”
The Australian believes the determination shown by his players will stand them in good stead for the second leg at Windsor Park.
“It’s a bit of a relief to get a draw away from home, but I’m delighted with the players and their determination to keep going.
“You can’t ask for anything more than that and we’re going back home in good shape.”
Oxtoby also praised Cliftonville’s Danielle Maxwell, who was the biggest threat to the whole of Northern Ireland.
“She was extraordinary, she was attacking players and causing all kinds of problems.
“Her all-round play was really impressive tonight and hopefully she can continue that into Tuesday.”