The All Blacks staged a powerful final-quarter comeback to defeat Ireland 26–13 in Chicago, avenging their 2016 loss at the same venue.
Trailing for much of the match, New Zealand finally broke through with tries from replacements Tamaiti Williams and Wallace Sititi within five minutes, before halfback Cam Roigard sealed victory with a late sidestep try.
Despite early disruption from the loss of captain Scott Barrett to injury and Ireland’s Tadhg Beirne’s red card for a head high, the All Blacks’ patience and strong defence turned the tide. Fabian Holland impressed in Barrett’s absence, while Damian McKenzie’s impact from the bench sparked attacking fluency as the visitors secured the first leg of their Grand Slam tour.
