Wales secure historic rugby victory against New Zealand for first time since 1953
In Cardiff, Wales ended a 73-year drought and a 34-match losing streak against New Zealand by securing a historic 35-28 victory over the All Blacks in the Nations Championship. The triumph marks Wales's first win against the three-time World Cup winners since 1953, providing a massive boost for Welsh rugby following an extended spell of disappointing results since the 2023 World Cup and ongoing off-field turmoil.
Under head coach Steve Tandy, who made five lineup changes following a narrow win over Japan, the hosts made a blistering start. Scrum-half Tomos Williams spearheaded the attack, scoring a try and assisting hooker Dewi Lake to establish a 14-0 lead within seven minutes. Prop Archie Griffin added a third Welsh try, but New Zealand fought back through scores from Cortez Ratima, Wallace Sititi, and Fehi Fineanganofo to pull level at 21-21 before the interval.
Wales seized control again after the break as Williams set up Eddie James before winger Louis Rees-Zammitt crossed for their fifth try. New Zealand, captained for the first time by Beauden Barrett on his 149th Test appearance under coach Davie Rennie, reduced the deficit when flanker Peter Lakai scored and Richie Mo'unga converted. Facing intense pressure over the final 25 minutes, Wales held New Zealand up over the try line multiple times to protect their seven-point lead and close out a historic victory.
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