Since the Chicago breakthrough, the two teams have been ranked among the best in the world, with momentum swinging back and forth.
: This victory removed the "fear factor" for Ireland and signaled the start of a genuine, balanced rivalry. Recent History and Rivalry Shift (2018–Present)
: Historic matches often featured lopsided results, such as New Zealand's 60–0 win in 2012 and 63–15 in 1997. The Turning Point: Chicago 2016 Since the Chicago breakthrough, the two teams have
: Between their first meeting in 1905 and 2016, Ireland failed to win a single test match against the All Blacks.
The dynamic changed forever on November 5, 2016, at Soldier Field in Chicago. The Turning Point: Chicago 2016 : Between their
: Despite Ireland's success in test matches, the All Blacks have continued to dominate on the biggest stage, defeating Ireland in the quarterfinals of both the 2019 and 2023 Rugby World Cups.
: Most recently, the All Blacks have re-established some control, winning their last three encounters, including a 26–13 victory in Chicago in November 2025. Google Sports Data This response uses data provided by Google Sports : Most recently, the All Blacks have re-established
After 111 years of near-total domination by New Zealand, the rivalry between the All Blacks and Ireland has shifted into a highly competitive, modern-day battle where Ireland is no longer the perpetual underdog. While the All Blacks maintained an undefeated streak from 1905 until 2016, the subsequent decade saw the two nations share a nearly equal record, with Ireland securing historic wins both at home and away. Sat, Nov 1 New Zealand won! New Zealand The Era of Domination (1905–2013)