Rugby fans, grab a cuppa and let’s chat about the Ireland vs New Zealand match at Soldier Field – or what some are calling a “shambolic” spectacle. This game was hyped as a rugby showcase to boost the sport’s popularity across the pond ahead of the 2031 World Cup in the US. But what actually happened? Let’s just say it was memorable for all the wrong reasons.
From the start, things went belly up. A soft red card for Tadhg Beirne set the tone, causing confusion on the pitch and in the stands. With large screens failing and referees crowded over a tiny monitor to make decisions, fans were clueless about what was happening. To add to the chaos, a disembodied voice sporadically popped up over the PA attempting to explain calls – not always at the best time!
The pitch? Let’s just say it left a lot to be desired, with players struggling on the dodgy surface. And all these kerfuffles combined to make what should’ve been a thrilling match a bit of a nightmare – a world away from the classic 2016 fixture at the same venue.
Ireland had a brief moment in the limelight, leading 10-0 with a Tadhg Furlong try, but New Zealand’s All Blacks came roaring back, taking over in the second half to finish the match 26-13.
The Irish media didn’t hold back, calling the event a “shambolic” mess. As for the goal of making rugby an American sensation? Well, this wasn’t quite the dazzling debut the sport needed. The match left fans wondering how rugby will truly capture the American imagination.
If introducing rugby abroad is the game, there’s still some work to be done! What do you think? Could this make rugby a hit in the US, or is there a better way? Share your thoughts below! 🏉