Wales beat New Zealand 35-28 after 73-Year wait

Wales 35-28 New Zealand, Principality Stadium

Wales ended their 73-year wait for victory over New Zealand with a stunning 35-28 win in the Nations Championship at Cardiff's Principality Stadium on Saturday.

Steve Tandy's side scored five tries before producing an extraordinary defensive performance to end a run of 34 consecutive defeats against the All Blacks dating back to 1953.

Wales Make Explosive First-Half Start

Tomos Williams opened the scoring inside two minutes, following Louis Rees-Zammit's clever chip to touch down. Captain Dewi Lake added a second try from close range, with Sam Costelow converting both.

New Zealand responded through Cortez Ratima, but Archie Griffin powered over in the 24th minute. Costelow converted to restore Wales' 14-point advantage at 21-7.

The All Blacks fought back through Wallace Sititi before Fehi Fineanganofo finished an attacking move involving Quinn Tupaea deep into first-half stoppage time.

Wales Regain Control After The Break

Wales made another flying start after half-time as Eddie James crossed in the 44th minute.

Rees-Zammit then finished another attacking move four minutes later, with Costelow converting both tries to give the hosts a commanding 35-21 advantage.

New Zealand responded through Peter Lakai in the 53rd minute, with Mo'unga converting to reduce the deficit to seven points.

Welsh Defence Secures Historic Victory

The All Blacks dominated possession during the final quarter, repeatedly attacking the Welsh line in search of an equalising try.

However, Wales produced outstanding collective defence, holding New Zealand up over the line three times.

James Botham, Eddie James and Max Llewellyn contributed to a determined defensive effort as the hosts refused to surrender their lead.

Wales held firm until the final whistle to complete a historic victory.