Wales vs All Blacks 2025: Historic Chance to End 72-Year Winless Streak

Wales hosts New Zealand at Principality Stadium on Saturday, November 22, 2025. The match presents a rare opportunity to break a 72-year losing streak. The All Blacks arrive as favorites but are reeling from a surprise defeat.

This fixture is one of rugby’s most storied rivalries. Wales last defeated the All Blacks in 1953. The home side will harness recent momentum against a wounded giant.

New Zealand Seeks Response After England Defeat

Coach Scott Robertson’s All Blacks lost 33-19 to England last week. It was their third defeat of a challenging 2025 season. Robertson has made sweeping changes to his starting lineup.

Only captain Scott Barrett and two others retain their spots. The team is under significant pressure to perform. According to Reuters, the New Zealand camp insists they have identified areas for improvement.

This context changes the dynamic in Cardiff. New Zealand must win convincingly. Wales can play with the freedom of a historic underdog.

Welsh Belief Bolstered by Narrow Victory

Wales enters this clash with renewed confidence. A last-gasp 24-23 win over Japan ended a ten-test home losing streak. That victory was their first under interim coach Steve Tandy.

Tandy has made five changes to that winning side. Flanker Harri Deaves earns his first cap. The return of centre Joe Hawkins adds experience to the backline.

The squad acknowledges the scale of the challenge. Recent heavy home losses to England and Argentina reveal defensive frailties. Yet, captain Dafydd Jenkins says belief is growing within the camp.

A Glimpse at the Daunting Historical Record

The history books heavily favor the men in black. New Zealand has won 34 of the 37 total meetings between the sides. Wales has only three victories, with one draw.

Their last win was a 13-8 triumph in Cardiff on December 19, 1953. The All Blacks’ average winning margin in the professional era is substantial. This statistical dominance makes any Welsh challenge a monumental task.

Recent encounters have followed a familiar script. New Zealand has won the last five matches comfortably. Each match adds another year to the long Welsh wait.

Key Battles That Could Decide the Match

Several individual duels will be critical on Saturday. The clash at fly-half features new All Blacks playmaker Ruben Love against Wales’s Sam Costelow. Their control of the game will be pivotal.

The breakdown battle will be fiercely contested. Wales’s reshuffled back row must disrupt the All Blacks’ quick ruck ball. Slowing their tempo is a non-negotiable for the home side.

Finally, the psychological warfare is key. Can Wales handle the occasion and the inevitable All Blacks response? Can New Zealand’s new combinations gel instantly under pressure?

The stage is set for a classic encounter in Cardiff. Wales vs All Blacks 2025 is more than just an autumn international. It is a chance to rewrite 72 years of rugby history.

Info at your fingertips

When was the last time Wales beat the All Blacks?

Wales last defeated New Zealand on December 19, 1953. The final score was 13-8 at Cardiff Arms Park. That victory remains their only post-war win against the All Blacks.

What is at stake for the All Blacks in this match?

New Zealand seeks to avoid back-to-back losses on their European tour. A defeat would intensify scrutiny on coach Scott Robertson’s first year. A strong performance is vital for team morale and public confidence.

How important is home advantage for Wales?

Principality Stadium is one of rugby’s most formidable fortresses. A capacity crowd of over 74,000 will provide immense energy. This atmosphere has spurred Welsh teams to famous performances in the past.

Who are the key players to watch?

For Wales, debutant flanker Harri Deaves brings high energy. For New Zealand, all eyes will be on new fly-half Ruben Love. His decision-making will direct the All Blacks’ attack.