New Zealand dominates Uruguay with 11-try onslaught, secures quarter-final spot in Rugby World Cup

Posted : 06 October 2023

New Zealand secured their place in the World Cup quarter-finals with a dominant display, scoring 11 tries to overwhelm Uruguay. In a match held in Lyon, Leicester Fainga'anuku stole the spotlight in the second half with a remarkable hat-trick.

Notably, Damian McKenzie and Will Jordan also made their presence felt, each contributing two tries to the team's impressive tally. Richie Mo'unga, Cam Roigard, Fletcher Newell, and Tamaiti Williams, who came off the bench, all added to New Zealand's commanding performance.

The victory ensures that New Zealand will finish second in Pool A, provided France avoids defeat against Italy, securing their place in the quarter-finals. Their potential opponents in the next round include Ireland or Scotland, who will face off in Paris on Saturday, or defending champions South Africa.

Uruguay, despite their valiant efforts earlier in the tournament against France and Italy and a second-half resurgence against Namibia, concluded their World Cup journey with heads held high. Their encounter with New Zealand marked their heaviest defeat in the pool stage.

New Zealand, a two-time World Cup champion, entered the tournament in peak form under the guidance of coach Ian Foster, boasting an impressive 11-match unbeaten streak. While they faced a setback with a historic loss to South Africa and a challenging opener against France, their 14 tries and 96-point victory over Italy last week served as a reminder that they remained a formidable force.

Initially, New Zealand struggled to make a significant impact against Uruguay's resolute defense. However, Damian McKenzie breathed life into their attack, scoring the opening try and showcasing his skills with a remarkable moment, regathering his own grubber kick and setting up Jordan for New Zealand's third try. McKenzie continued to shine in the second half, adding another try as Uruguay struggled to contain New Zealand's relentless offensive pressure. McKenzie's versatility was on full display as he moved to fly-half later in the game, delivering two crucial touchline conversions.

With captain Sam Cane back in the starting lineup, New Zealand heads into the quarter-finals with renewed confidence and a powerful display of their potential to compete at the highest level of international rugby.

New Zealand dominates Uruguay with 11-try onslaught, secures quarter-final spot in Rugby World Cup

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