‘Astonishing’: Rugby world rocked as Ireland topples All Blacks in New Zealand

Ireland have stunned the rugby community, defying the odds to topple the mighty All Blacks in New Zealand for the first time in history.

Tadhg Beirne of Ireland celebrates with Josh van der Flier. Photo by Joe Allison/Getty Images

Ireland have pulled off a major upset in Dunedin, securing their first victory over the All Blacks in New Zealand in Test history.

The men in green stunned the rugby powerhouse 23-12 on Saturday evening, defying the odds to even the three-match series at 1-1.

After they were humbled 42-19 in Auckland last weekend, Ireland bounced back to claim a historic triumph over the three-time world champions at Forsyth Barr Stadium, their fourth win over New Zealand in seven games.

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“Delighted. We played some great stuff at the start, especially when it was 15 on 15, no Irish team’s ever done it before and delighted,” said Ireland captain Johnny Sexton, who added 13 points from the kicking tee.

“But it’s all on the line next week.”

Irish prop Andrew Porter scored two tried for the visitors while the All Blacks were let down by poor discipline, with three cards handed out in the first 30 minutes of action.

After Leicester Fainga’anuku and Ofa Tu’ungafasi were both given yellow cards, New Zealand replacement prop Angus Ta’avao was shown red after a sickening head clash to leave the hosts reeling with just 14 men.

Bundee Aki of Ireland. Photo by Joe Allison/Getty Images

“We were beaten out of the blocks again in the first 15-20 minutes, but we showed some massive character to hang on like that and score a first try before half-time,” All Blacks captain Sam Cane said.

“But they’re a quality outfit and they bounced back in a big way tonight.

“We just had too many unforced errors and that didn’t allow us to get our game going and it will be all on next week.”

Ireland had never defeated the All Blacks before 2016, yet have managed the rare feat four times since.

Ireland defeat the All Blacks for the first time in New Zealand. 23-12.

It’s their fourth win over the All Blacks in their past seven matches.

Astonishing. What a result for international rugby.

More pressure on All Blacks coach Ian Foster.

— Christy Doran (@ChristypDoran) July 9, 2022

Massive pressure on Ian Foster and his coaching staff now.

The All Blacks were an ill-disciplined for long spells today.

Major coaching error meant Ardie Savea couldn't come back on.

The reaction in NZ will be vicious.#NZLvIRE

— Murray Kinsella (@Murray_Kinsella) July 9, 2022

Historic 23-12 win for Ireland in Dunedin, defeating the All Blacks for the first time in New Zealand soil!

117 years in the making.

A chaotic match from start to finish, and far from a clean performance, but Ireland have finally done it! #NZLvIRE

— Andy Stevenson (@andyste123) July 9, 2022

Former England representative Andy Goode tweeted: “Monumental shift from Ireland to get their first ever victory against the All Blacks in New Zealand! Heroes all of them!”

Irish Daily Mail writer Matt Cooper posted: “Terrific outcome to a bizarre game. Congratulations Ireland, the better team.”

Ireland and New Zealand will face off in the series decider at Wellington’s Sky Stadium on Saturday, July 16.