Ireland vs New Zealand Preview & Prediction | 2025 End-Of Year Internationals
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Soldier Field in Chicago plays host to a thrilling Test match between Rugby Union heavyweights Ireland and New Zealand.
Start date/time:
How to watch on TV: UK – TNT Sports / US – Peacock
How to watch online: UK – discovery+ / US – Peacock Premium
Ireland team news
Squad: J Osborne; T O'Brien, G Ringrose, S McCloskey, J Lowe; J Crowley, J Gibson-Park; A Porter, D Sheehan (capt), T Furlong, J Ryan, T Beirne, R Baird, J van der Flier, J Conan
Replacements: R Kelleher, P McCarthy, F Bealham, I Henderson, C Doris, C Casey, S Prendergast, B Aki
New Zealand team news
Squad: W Jordan; L Carter, Q Tupaea, J Barrett, C Clarke; B Barrett, C Roigard; E De Groot, C Taylor, F Newell, S Barrett, F Holland, S Parker, A Savea, P Lakai
Replacements: S Taukei'aho, T Williams, P Tosi, J Lord, W Sititi, C Ratima, L Fainga'anuku, D McKenzie
Ireland vs New Zealand prediction
Ireland’s preparations for the 2027 Rugby World Cup begin in earnest, according to head coach Andy Farrell at least, with this eagerly-anticipated clash with New Zealand in Chicago.
Soldier Field will harbour fond memories for the Irish, as their first ever victory over the All Blacks came at this very venue in 2016.
New Zealand have come out on top in the last two meetings between the sides though, in what has developed into a gripping rivalry in recent years.
The All Blacks came agonisingly close to winning the recent Rugby Championship, where they finished second behind world champions South Africa on points difference.
Those recent matches against the top southern hemisphere nations will serve them well here though, and they will be fired up to exact revenge for Ireland’s famous win in Chicago nine years ago. We’re edging the All Blacks in this one.
Ireland vs New Zealand tip: New Zealand to win
