Ireland Rugby vs. All Blacks Set For Crunch Chicago Rematch In November
Ireland Rugby vs. All Blacks Set For Crunch Chicago Rematch In November
All Blacks and Ireland face off in a thrilling rematch at Chicago’s Soldier Field this November in a rematch of Ireland's first ever victory over All Blacks
Rugby powerhouses New Zealand All Blacks and Ireland will face off at Soldier Field at 4 p.m. on Nov. 1 in a much-anticipated rematch, New Zealand Rugby (NZR) announced. The game marks the teams' return to the iconic Chicago venue, where Ireland claimed a historic 40-29 victory in 2016—their first-ever win over the All Blacks.
NZR Chief Executive Mark Robinson emphasized the significance of the matchup, highlighting the deep respect between the two sides and the excitement surrounding the event.
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“We’re excited to be taking the All Blacks back to Chicago, and for it to be against Ireland is especially fitting,” Robinson said. “We have massive respect for the Irish, and the recent history between our two teams means that this will be a highly anticipated match-up. Both teams have passionate fans who will be keen to make an occasion of travelling to the game at such an iconic venue.”
Beyond the competitive stakes, the game aligns with NZR’s broader ambitions to expand rugby’s reach in the United States, particularly with the upcoming Rugby World Cups in 2031 and 2033 and the growth of Major League Rugby.
“Rugby is experiencing great momentum in the US,” Robinson said. “The US is part of our wider global strategy, and we’re looking forward to this match as part of our ongoing engagement with North America.”
All Blacks head coach Scott Robertson echoed Robinson’s enthusiasm, calling the clash an “epic rematch” that reignites one of rugby’s fiercest modern rivalries.
“This will be an epic rematch in one of the world’s great sporting cities,” Robertson said. “All Blacks supporters will remember well the last time we faced Ireland at this venue, which launched one of our fiercest modern rivalries. This is an awesome addition to our 2025 schedule; we look forward to bringing the team back to the US and being part of this sporting spectacle.”
Since Ireland’s ground-breaking 2016 victory, the teams have split their last 10 Test matches evenly, each securing five wins. The All Blacks edged Ireland 23-13 in their most recent encounter during the 2024 Northern Tour in Dublin, while Ireland boasts notable successes, including a Six Nations Grand Slam in 2023 and a historic series win in New Zealand in 2022.
With tickets already in high demand, fans are encouraged to secure their seats early. Pre-sale tickets are currently available, with general sales opening on February 22.
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