New Zealand put on a dominant display in their Rugby World Cup semi-final match against Argentina, securing a formidable 44-6 victory at the Stade de France in Paris.
The All Blacks were simply unstoppable, with Will Jordan, Jordie Barrett, and Shannon Frizell all scoring tries in the first half, while Aaron Smith, Frizell, and Jordan each added another try in the second half.
Jordan’s hat-trick put him in the record books, drawing level with Jonah Lomu, Bryan Habana, and Julian Savea for the most tries in a World Cup tournament.
Richie Mo’unga was also in fine form, kicking three conversions and a penalty.
Despite Emiliano Boffelli scoring two penalties for Argentina, it was a poor showing for the team that had previously beaten Japan and Wales to reach the semi-finals.
The semi-final match failed to live up to expectations, particularly after the thrilling quarter-final matches that saw Ireland and France exit the tournament.
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The Pumas started strong with a lengthy spell of possession in the All Blacks’ 22 but eventually secured only three points via a Boffelli penalty.
New Zealand quickly took control of the match with their first try in the 11th minute, followed by another just six minutes later.
Argentina managed to narrow the gap with another Boffelli penalty, but Mo’unga quickly responded with a penalty of his own. Frizell’s try just before halftime cemented New Zealand’s lead.
New Zealand continued to dominate in the second half, with Smith, Frizell, and Jordan all scoring tries.
Although Scott Barrett was sin-binned with 15 minutes to go, it was too little too late for Argentina.
New Zealand emerged victorious, securing their spot in a fifth Rugby World Cup final in history.
Jordie Barrett spoke to ITV Sport after the match, expressing his pride in the team’s performance.
“It is so sweet. It is new territory for this group. We slipped at the semi-final hurdle four years ago so I am so proud of this group. It is not done yet. We are going to have a tough match regardless of who we have next week. It’s another week which we are very grateful for.”
With this impressive win, New Zealand now faces South Africa or England in the World Cup final on Saturday, October 28 (8 pm kick-off BST), with their sights set on securing a record fourth World Cup trophy.
Meanwhile, Argentina will face England or South Africa in the third-place play-off on Friday, October 27 (8 pm kick-off BST).
