The landmark triumph at Cardiff’s Principality Stadium marked Wales’ first victory over New Zealand since 1953 and ended a run of 34 consecutive defeats against the three-time world champions, Reuters reported.
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Wales scored five tries to New Zealand’s four, producing an exceptional defensive performance to secure only their fourth victory in 39 meetings between the two nations.
The hosts made a remarkable start, scoring twice in the opening six minutes to establish a 14-0 lead.
Tomos Williams opened the scoring after Louis Rees-Zammit kicked the ball forward, allowing the scrumhalf to dive on the loose ball. Captain Dewi Lake added a second try following a powerful attacking move.
New Zealand responded through Cortez Ratima in the 10th minute, but Archie Griffin restored Wales’ advantage with another try.
The All Blacks fought back before halftime, with Wallace Sititi and Fehi Fineanganofo crossing the line to level the score at 21-21.
Wales regained control early in the second half when Eddie James scored in the 44th minute, followed by Rees-Zammit five minutes later, extending the home side’s lead to 35-21.
Sam Costelow successfully converted all five Welsh tries.
New Zealand narrowed the deficit to 35-28 through Peter Lakai’s try in the 53rd minute, setting up a tense final period.
However, Wales produced an extraordinary defensive effort, completing 346 tackles and preventing the All Blacks from scoring on three occasions when they were held up over the try line.
Welsh player of the match James Botham credited the victory to the team’s belief, preparation and the passionate support of the home crowd.
“It’s come from belief. Obviously we’ve got the crowd behind us, and the energy and the noise was unbelievable,” Botham said.
New Zealand head coach Dave Rennie acknowledged the hosts’ outstanding defensive performance.
“A hell of a defensive effort from them. They were excellent tonight,” he said.
The result sparked emotional celebrations at the Principality Stadium, with several Welsh players reduced to tears after ending one of international rugby’s longest losing streaks.
Despite the defeat, New Zealand collected bonus points that moved them above South Africa in the Northern Hemisphere standings of the Nations Championship.
