IRELAND stunned New Zealand 40-29 in Chicago to claim a historic first-ever win over the All Blacks and end the world champions’ record-breaking 18-match winning streak.
In a breathtaking upset at Soldier Field, Ireland outscored the New Zealanders by five tries to four to seal their first win over the Kiwis in the 29th meeting between the two nations dating to 1905.
Tries from Jordi Murphy, CJ Stander and Conor Murray helped the Irish to a 25-8 half-time lead, then Simon Zebo scored his side’s fourth try in the corner.
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The world champions fought back to move to within four points but Robbie Henshaw’s late try ensured the victory.
The Irish were forced to hold off a ferocious New Zealand fightback in the second half, which saw the All Blacks recover from a 30-8 deficit to go within four points at 33-29.
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But with the majority of fans in a 62,300 sellout crowd roaring them on, Ireland scored a fifth and final try through blockbusting centre Henshaw, converted by replacement fly-half Joey Carbery, to clinch a famous victory.
It was New Zealand's first defeat since their loss to Australia in August 2015.
The match was the first of four autumn internationals for both sides.
The teams will meet again at the Aviva Stadium in a fortnight after Ireland host Canada next Saturday and Steve Hansen's side face Italy in Rome on the same day.
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