Wales head coach Steve Tandy expressed immense pride in his “phenomenal” squad following a historic 35-28 victory over New Zealand in Cardiff. The result marks a seismic shift in world rugby, as Wales secured their first win against the All Blacks since 1953, snapping a grueling 34-match losing streak in one of the sport’s most lopsided fixtures. Tandy emphasized the emotional weight of the performance, noting that the team finally delivered the long-sought positivity for both the squad and the passionate home supporters.
Wales end 70-year drought with five-try masterclass, capping a defensive siege in Cardiff.
Statistically, the match was a landmark achievement for the Welsh attack, who recorded five tries against New Zealand for the first time in their history. The scoreboard swung dramatically in Wales’ favor, with the home side leading by 14 points on three separate occasions. While the offensive surge set the stage, it was the defensive resilience that ultimately sealed the upset, as Wales held firm against late All Blacks pressure to retain the lead and secure the Nations Championship points.
This victory serves as a pivotal turning point for the Welsh program, validating Tandy’s tactical approach and boosting morale ahead of future international campaigns. By combining record-breaking scoring with heroic defensive work, the players not only ended a decades-long curse but also established a new benchmark for performance against top-tier opposition. The win provides a tangible foundation for future success, proving that Wales can compete with and defeat the world’s best on their own terms.
Source: The Independent Sport
