What Happened To The All Blacks Domination Of The Irish? | A Patchy History From A New Zealander ❲PREMIUM - 2025❳

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)

: Ireland secured their first-ever victory against the All Blacks in Dublin in 2018 with a 16–9 result.

: 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. After 111 years of near-total domination by New

: This victory removed the "fear factor" for Ireland and signaled the start of a genuine, balanced rivalry. Recent History and Rivalry Shift (2018–Present)

Since the Chicago breakthrough, the two teams have been ranked among the best in the world, with momentum swinging back and forth. New Zealand The Era of Domination (1905–2013) :

: 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

The dynamic changed forever on November 5, 2016, at Soldier Field in Chicago. Recent History and Rivalry Shift (2018–Present) Since the

For over a century, the matchup was famously one-sided. New Zealand's "aura" often secured victories before the whistle even blew.