Ireland Stun World Champions New Zealand 29-27 in Vancouver Thriller

Ireland have pulled off one of the great WXV upsets. The Irish women stunned world champions New Zealand 29-27 in Vancouver, holding their nerve in a breathless finish to claim a famous victory.

Ireland led 17-10 at halftime thanks to two tries from flanker Aoife Wafer and one from hooker Neve Jones, before the Black Ferns roared back to level it by the break through Katelyn Vahaakolo. New Zealand edged ahead again with a Renee Holmes penalty, and when Mererangi Paul rounded off a sweeping move with Holmes converting, the champions led by five with the clock ticking.

But Ireland refused to fold. After relentless late pressure, King's second try set up the clinching penalty, sparking wild celebrations. It is a result that will echo far beyond Vancouver — the world champions beaten, and Ireland's stock rising fast. Next up: a clash with hosts Canada on Saturday.