New Zealand overcame a spirited Ireland side with three late tries to claim a 26–13 victory before 65,000 fans at Chicago’s Soldier Field on Saturday.
Trailing 13–7 with just under 20 minutes to play, the All Blacks turned the match around through a surge of attacking precision. Tamaiti Williams powered over from a tapped penalty in the 61st minute, Wallace Sititi finished a flowing move created by Beauden Barrett and Damian McKenzie five minutes later, and Cam Roigard sealed the win with a darting run off a dominant scrum.
It was a harsh result for Ireland, who had led for most of the game and looked poised to repeat their famous 2016 victory at the same venue. “It’s a bitter pill to swallow,” admitted Ireland captain Dan Sheehan. “We never really got going — small flashes, but not the full picture.”
The All Blacks had struggled early against Ireland’s physical rush defense and constant pressure at the breakdown. The match was also disrupted by injuries and penalties, with New Zealand losing captain Scott Barrett after three minutes and midfielder Jordie Barrett soon after, while Ireland’s Tadhg Beirne was shown a yellow card for head contact on Beauden Barrett.
Ireland struck first through a Jack Crowley penalty and a try from prop Tadhg Furlong, before Ardie Savea replied for New Zealand to make it 10–7 at halftime. Crowley’s second-half penalty extended Ireland’s lead to 13–7 before the All Blacks’ late surge.
“It’s nice to come here and rectify that loss from nine years ago,” said All Blacks captain Ardie Savea.
The win keeps New Zealand’s hopes of completing a first Grand Slam over the Home Unions since 2005 alive. They now turn their attention to upcoming Tests against Scotland, England, and Wales.
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