New Zealand into Rugby World Cup final after outclassing Argentina

Will Jordan scored a hat-trick of tries as New Zealand outclassed Argentina 44-6 on Friday to set up a Rugby World Cup final against the winner of the second semi-final between England and defending champions South Africa.

The result at a rainy Stade de France saw the All Blacks become the first team to reach the final of a World Cup on five occasions.

“It’s so sweet. It’s new territory for this group,” said player of the match Jordie Barrett. 

“I am just so proud of this group. It’s not done yet. We will have a very tough match regardless of who we have next week.”

The three-time champions, who beat Ireland in a thrilling quarter-final last week, outscored Los Pumas by seven tries to none, mixing some doughty early defence with front-foot flamboyance in attack.

History was on New Zealand’s side coming into the match, the All Blacks having won 33 of the 36 previous encounters between the two sides with Los Pumas claiming two victories, with one match drawn.

And although it was Emiliano Boffelli who opened the scoring for Argentina with a fifth-minute penalty, it was not long before New Zealand’s dominance shone through.

The All Blacks spurned their first chance of a kick at goal, instead going to the corner for an attacking line-out and after a series of pick-and-drives, a long Richie Mo’unga cut-out pass found Jordan and the winger crossed for an easy try that the fly-half converted.

As forwards linked impeccably with backs, Jordan then turned provider, drawing in the final defender just enough to allow Jordie Barrett a line into the corner for New Zealand’s second try.(AFP)