Rugby World Cup 2023 | Match Centre | Argentina 6:44 New Zealand

New Zealand Clinches Fifth Rugby World Cup Final Spot with Dominant Win

Will Jordan delivered a stellar performance, securing a remarkable hat-trick, as New Zealand overwhelmed Argentina with seven tries at Stade de France, propelling them to an unprecedented fifth Rugby World Cup final.

The three-time champions displayed unwavering discipline in their defense and unleashed a ruthless assault, with Jordan, Jordie Barrett, and Shannon Frizell contributing first-half tries. Aaron Smith extended their lead with a fourth try in the second half, and Frizell added another before Jordan claimed the title of leading try scorer.

In the upcoming final, the All Blacks will confront either South Africa or England. Despite Argentina’s third appearance in a World Cup semi-final, they struggled to penetrate New Zealand’s defense, managing only two Emiliano Boffelli penalties.

The All Blacks absorbed the initial pressure before launching devastating counter-attacks. They could have broken their record for the largest winning margin in a World Cup semi-final, but Richie Mo’unga chose to carry the ball himself instead of passing to Jordan for a potential fourth try.

The Pumas will vie for third/fourth place, aiming to equal their best-ever finish from the 2007 tournament in France. Meanwhile, New Zealand aspires to become the most successful nation in World Cup history with a fourth title when they return to the Stade de France next weekend.

Match Summary

Semi-Final 1 | Argentina 6:44 New Zealand

Argentina Scores:

PENS Emiliano Boffelli (5′, 31′)

New Zealand Scores:

TRIES Will Jordan (11′, 62′, 73′), Jordie Barrett (16′), Shannon Frizell (42′, 49′), Aaron Smith (42′)
CONV Richie Mo’unga (12′, 43′, 50′)
PENS Richie Mo’unga (31′)

Venue:

Stade de France, Saint-Denis

Referee:

Angus Gardner

Man of the Match:

Will Jordan (New Zealand)