Nine years after a landmark day for Irish rugby, Ireland and New Zealand return to Soldier Field for another high-profile clash in what has evolved into a classic rugby rivalry at the Autumn Internationals. Before Ireland’s famous 40–29 triumph in 2016, the men in green had never defeated the All Blacks in 111 years of clashes. But the last ten contests have since been shared evenly between the nations.
Get ready for the 2025 Autumn Nations Series! Secure your Autumn Internationals Tickets through eticketing.co and watch Ireland take on New Zealand, Japan, and Australia at the Aviva Stadium. Don’t miss out on thrilling international rugby action.
The fear factor has evaporated from the Irish perspective. While New Zealand now looks to reclaim its authority on the world stage. A revisit to the historic 2016 battleground revives vivid memories of glory for Ireland. Yet the All Blacks arrive determined to avenge that defining defeat and restore their supremacy.
This fixture also launches Ireland’s Autumn Internationals. Beginning with this American adventure before returning home for Tests against Japan, Australia, and South Africa. The matchup doubles as a momentum builder for both sides heading into the Autumn Nations Series. Ireland’s most recent Six Nations campaign saw them finish third.
Despite four victories in five outings, a costly 15-point loss to France in Dublin. Combined with only three bonus points, left them two points shy of the champions and one behind England. With 18 players involved in the British and Irish Lions tour to Australia, it became a prime chance for fringe contenders to step up.
Prepare for an incredible rugby spectacle with the 2025 Autumn Nations Series! Secure your Autumn Internationals 2025 Tickets through eticketing.co and watch Ireland take on New Zealand, Japan, and Australia at the Aviva Stadium. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience world-class international rugby live. Get your tickets today and be part of the action.
Injury Updates Shape Ireland and New Zealand Squads for Autumn Internationals 2025
During summer fixtures against Georgia and Portugal, Ireland emerged victorious in both Tests. Building valuable squad depth before the Autumn Internationals 2025. New Zealand, meanwhile, swept France 3–0 at home before turning to the Rugby Championship. After an opening win over Argentina, the Pumas shocked them a week later.
The All Blacks shared their home series with South Africa and retained the Bledisloe Cup by securing consecutive victories against Australia, though they ultimately fell short on points difference to the Springboks, setting the stage for a statement performance in the Autumn Internationals. Ireland coach Andy Farrell was compelled to revise his squad after multiple injuries.
Mack Hansen sustained a foot issue for Connacht in the URC. While Munster duo Edwin Edogbo and Brian Gleeson were ruled out. Uncapped center Tom Farrell and Leinster’s Jimmy O’Brien were drafted in. Bundee Aki and Robbie Henshaw travelled despite minor setbacks, with their progress under close observation. While captain Caelan Doris eyes his first return since a shoulder injury during Leinster’s Champions Cup semi-final last May.
For New Zealand, head coach Scott Robertson also made late changes. Veteran Patrick Tuipulotu was replaced by Sam Darry due to a shoulder problem. Josh Lord joins the lock options as Tupou Vaa’i misses out through a knee issue. While uncapped prop Tevita Mafileo steps in with Tyrel Lomax sidelined by a thumb injury.
Get ready for an unforgettable rugby experience with the 2025 Autumn Nations Series! Secure your Ireland Vs New Zealand Tickets are now through eticketing.co and join Ireland at the Aviva Stadium as they face off against New Zealand, Japan, and Australia. Don’t miss the chance to witness top-tier international rugby action live! Grab your tickets today and be part of the excitement!
Ireland Vs New Zealand: Farrell Returns as Ireland Prepare for All Blacks Test
That 2016 victory in Chicago remains a defining moment in Irish sporting history. Although the All Blacks struck back in Dublin two weeks later, the Ireland vs New Zealand rivalry deepened as Ireland earned their first home win in 2018, followed by a historic 2–1 series triumph on New Zealand soil in 2022.
Yet, the All Blacks’ resilience has repeatedly surfaced from their 2019 World Cup quarter-final demolition of Ireland in Japan to the 2023 showdown in France, where they held firm for a 28–24 victory despite late Irish pressure. Their most recent encounter in Dublin saw New Zealand prevail 23–13, courtesy of six Damian McKenzie penalties, nullifying Josh van der Flier’s try after halftime.
A late Will Jordan score sealed the outcome. Following a brief absence after last year’s Autumn Internationals to lead the British and Irish Lions, Andy Farrell returns to helm Ireland once again. During his hiatus, Simon Easterby oversaw the side, but the return of Farrell, the coach who masterminded Ireland’s 2023 Grand Slam, brings renewed assurance and strategic clarity ahead of the Autumn Internationals.
There may be a period of readjustment, especially for those involved in the Lions’ Australian tour, yet the challenge of facing the All Blacks offers the perfect focus point. A test of resolve, tactics, and mentality, this fixture embodies the spirit of the Autumn Internationals, where both sides aim to reaffirm their credentials on rugby’s grand stage.
Don’t miss the action this fall! Secure your Autumn Internationals Tickets at eticketing.co and witness Ireland face off against New Zealand, Japan, and Australia in the 2025 Autumn Nations Series. Be part of the excitement at the Aviva Stadium and enjoy world-class rugby. Get your tickets today!