New Zealand and Rugby World Cup success often walk hand in hand, but this current streak by the All Blacks holds special significance.
In a semifinal match at the Stade de France, New Zealand, the three-time world champions, delivered an electrifying second-half performance to crush Argentina, securing their place in the World Cup Final with an extra day of rest. They will face the winner of the England/South Africa semifinal.
Before the World Cup, there were doubts about New Zealand’s ability to perform at their previous championship-winning level. However, since their initial loss, they’ve been nothing short of sensational, progressively defeating their opponents. Only one hurdle remains between them and another Webb Ellis Cup triumph.
The All Blacks dominated Argentina with a resounding 44-6 victory in suburban Paris. Here’s a look at how New Zealand made its way back to the final, reminiscent of their past glory days:
All Blacks Return to Dominance From a world ranking low of fifth just over a year ago, New Zealand, following its opening match loss to France in the World Cup, has experienced a resurgence reminiscent of the dominant squads from Oceania’s rugby history.
Coach Ian Foster’s squad outperformed Argentina, who had defeated the All Blacks twice since the last World Cup, securing their place in the World Cup Final with a resounding display of their worthiness. The victory felt like a full-circle moment, eradicating prior demons and doubts for New Zealand, particularly after their humiliation by Argentina in Christchurch in August 2022.
Argentina was held scoreless in the second half, failing to score a try, while the All Blacks delivered a vintage knockout-round performance, reminding everyone of their past triumphs. Jordan and Jordie Barrett each scored tries in the opening 20 minutes, setting the stage for New Zealand’s dominant performance. Following Emiliano Boffelli’s second penalty, which brought the score to 12-6 in favor of New Zealand, the floodgates opened. Richie Mo’unga’s penalty and two tries by Shannon Frizell before halftime established New Zealand’s control with a substantial lead (20-6). In the opening 10 minutes of the second half, Aaron Smith and Frizell scored again, firmly securing the victory. Jordan’s two final tries were the icing on the cake as New Zealand cruised into the final.
Jordan’s Remarkable Performance Will Jordan has made a remarkable impact in his debut World Cup, matching the single-tournament try-scoring record shared by two fellow New Zealanders — and he still has one game left to potentially break the record.
At just 25 years old, Jordan, the Crusaders superstar, has a bright future ahead of him. He has set a blistering pace by scoring 31 tries in 30 total test matches for the All Blacks, with over one try per match. In a few years, he could become New Zealand’s all-time leading try-scorer, currently held by former Blues and Munster wing Doug Howlett (49 tries).
Jordan’s performance against the Pumas, where he scored a hat-trick, foreshadowed a tough night for Argentina. His speed and anticipation during New Zealand’s run of seven consecutive tries were nothing short of world-class. He now shares the record for the most tries in a single tournament with legendary Kiwis Jonah Lomu (1999), Julian Savea (2015), and South Africa’s Bryan Habana (2007), with eight tries in France. Jordan is not one to boast, but his achievements have solidified his place in the All Blacks squad.
Proud Pumas While Argentina may be disappointed that they didn’t reach the World Cup Final in their third semifinal appearance, it’s essential to acknowledge their outstanding performance in this World Cup. Their comeback from a 10-point deficit to defeat Wales in the quarterfinals was praiseworthy.
Despite facing the formidable All Blacks in the semifinals at the Stade de France, Argentina’s cause was not aided by several questionable refereeing decisions in the first half. Nevertheless, they will compete in the third-place match against the loser of the other semifinal, aiming to match their best-ever World Cup performance of third place.
Argentina’s progress in the international rugby scene has not only elevated their profile but has also improved rugby in South America. Their performance has positively impacted neighboring countries such as Uruguay, which secured a victory in Pool A, and debutants Chile, who faced Argentina in Pool D. Argentina’s resurgence under the leadership of coach Michael Cheika and the guidance of Felipe Contepomi could be a precursor to their future success, particularly in preparation for Australia 2027.