Preview: Ireland and New Zealand Renew Rivalry at Soldier Field

Nine years after one of the most unforgettable days in Irish rugby, Ireland and New Zealand return to Soldier Field in Chicago to renew a rivalry that has come to define the modern era of international rugby.

That November afternoon in 2016 marked the first time in 111 years that Ireland had beaten the All Blacks. Their 40–29 victory not only ended a century-long wait but also reshaped the psychological balance between the two nations. Since then, the fixture has been evenly matched, with five wins apiece from the last ten meetings.

For Ireland, the aura of invincibility once surrounding New Zealand has long since faded. For the All Blacks, the challenge has become one of reclaiming supremacy in a rivalry that now feels genuinely two-sided. The return to Chicago, the scene of that groundbreaking victory, will stir emotions among Irish supporters and players alike, while the New Zealanders will view it as a chance to right an old wrong.

This contest also marks the beginning of Ireland’s autumn international campaign, which continues back in Dublin with fixtures against Japan, Australia, and South Africa. It is a demanding schedule that will test both the depth and durability of Andy Farrell’s squad.

Setting the Stage

Kick-off at Soldier Field is set for 20:10 GMT on Saturday evening, with Chicago five hours behind Irish time. French referee Pierre Brousset will take charge of proceedings, supported by assistants Luc Ramos and Karl Dickson. England’s Ian Tempest will oversee the television match review.

Both sides are expected to confirm their line-ups on Thursday, with attention focused on the return of key players and the integration of new faces into each setup.

Form and Preparation

Ireland come into the fixture after finishing third in this year’s Six Nations. Despite winning four of their five matches, a costly defeat to France and a lack of bonus points kept them off the top of the table. With several senior players involved in the British and Irish Lions’ summer tour to Australia, the summer Tests in Georgia and Portugal provided opportunities for emerging talent, and Ireland responded with two wins.

New Zealand, meanwhile, enjoyed a strong home series victory over France earlier this year, followed by a mixed Rugby Championship campaign. A shock defeat to Argentina and a narrow points difference behind South Africa meant they missed out on the title, despite retaining the Bledisloe Cup with two wins over Australia.

Team News

Dan Sheehan will captain Ireland for the second time at Soldier Field, while Leinster prop Paddy McCarthy is in line for his Test debut off the bench.

Farrell has named Jamie Osborne, Tommy O’Brien and James Lowe in the Ireland back three, with Stuart McCloskey partnering Garry Ringrose in midfield. Jack Crowley is selected to start at out-half, partnering Jamison Gibson-Park in the half-backs.

In the pack, Andrew Porter, captain Sheehan and Tadhg Furlong are in the front row, with James Ryan and Tadhg Beirne in the engine room, and a back row of Ryan Baird at blindside flanker, Josh van der Flier at openside and Jack Conan at number eight completing Ireland’s starting XV

New Zealand coach Scott Robertson has also been forced into late changes. Veteran lock Patrick Tuipulotu misses out with a shoulder issue, replaced by Sam Darry. Tupou Vaa’i remains sidelined with a knee problem, while Tevita Mafileo comes into the front row for the injured Tyrel Lomax.

A Rivalry Redefined

Ireland’s breakthrough victory in 2016 was followed swiftly by defeat in Dublin two weeks later, but since then, they have matched the All Blacks blow for blow. Wins in 2018 and an historic series triumph in New Zealand in 2022 underscored Ireland’s rise as a genuine powerhouse. Yet the All Blacks have had their own moments of revenge, including decisive World Cup quarter-final victories in 2019 and 2023.

Their most recent meeting, in Dublin last year, ended in a 23–13 win for New Zealand, with Damian McKenzie’s reliable boot and a late Will Jordan try sealing the result after a fierce Irish effort.

Farrell Returns to the Helm

Andy Farrell’s return as head coach adds another layer of intrigue. Having stepped away temporarily to lead the British and Irish Lions, Farrell now resumes his role at a crucial juncture. His previous tenure brought a Grand Slam in 2023 and another Six Nations title the following year, and his leadership has been instrumental in shaping Ireland’s fearless approach.

Now, back in charge and facing the team that has defined so much of his coaching journey, Farrell has the chance to begin a new chapter. Soldier Field, a venue steeped in Irish rugby history, offers the perfect stage.

The Stage is Set

As the two sides prepare to run out in Chicago once more, the echoes of 2016 will be impossible to ignore. Ireland seek to rekindle the spirit that changed everything. New Zealand seek to reassert their legacy. For both, it is more than a warm-up — it is another test of pride, power, and the evolving balance of world rugby.