New Zealand clinches 24-22 victory over England in thriller

England 22-17 New Zealand, Allianz Stadium

In a heart-stopping Autumn Nations Series opener, New Zealand narrowly defeated England 24-22 at Twickenham, leaving the hosts to rue a missed final drop goal by George Ford.

The thrilling encounter saw England fight back in the second half only to fall short in the last moments, extending their 12-year wait for a home victory over the All Blacks.

The pre-match tension was heightened by Joe Marler’s controversial comments about the New Zealand haka, which spurred England to confront the All Blacks at the halfway line in a charged atmosphere.

New Zealand quickly took control in the first half, with tries from Mark Tele’a and Will Jordan. England managed to stay within reach, with Marcus Smith converting four penalties to keep the scoreline close.

The second half saw a rejuvenated England team as Marcus Smith’s interception set up Immanuel Feyi-Waboso’s try, pushing England eight points ahead with 20 minutes to go.

However, New Zealand clawed back through a Damien McKenzie penalty, reducing the gap before a brilliant finish from Tele’a in the corner put the All Blacks back in front.

England had two chances to reclaim victory: Ford’s penalty hit the post, and his last-second drop goal attempt narrowly missed, sealing the All Blacks' 24-22 win in a pulsating finish.

Team line up:

England XV: George Furbank, Immanuel Feyi-Waboso, Henry Slade, Ollie Lawrence, Tommy Freeman, Marcus Smith, Ben Spencer; Ellis Genge, Jamie George (captain), Will Stuart, Maro Itoje, George Martin, Chandler Cunningham-South, Tom Curry, Ben Earl

Reserves: Theo Dan, Fin Baxter, Dan Cole, Nick Isiekwe, Ben Curry, Alex Dombrandt, Harry Randall, George Ford

New Zealand XV: Will Jordan, Mark Tele’a, Reiko Ioane, Jordie Barrett, Caleb Clarke, Beauden Barrett, Cortez Ratima; Tamaiti Williams, Codie Taylor, Tyrel Lomax, Scott Barrett (captain), Tupou Vaa’i, Wallace Sititi, Sam Cane, Ardie Savea

Reserves: Asafo Aumua, Ofa Tu’ungafasi, Pasilio Tosi, Patrick Tuipulotu, Samipeni Finau, Cam Roigard, Anton Lienert-Brown, Damian McKenzie