PARIS (AP) – New Zealand started the Rugby World Cup with defeat to host France and a backlash of criticism. Now the All Blacks stand one victory away from a history-making fourth title.
The 44-6 rout of Argentina in the semi-final yesterday sent the All Blacks into a record fifth final. Only a few weeks ago, observers wrote them off following a 35-7 hammering by South Africa just before the tournament and then a 27-13 defeat to Les Tricolores for a first ever defeat in the pool stage.
“Criticism and stuff, outside noise, we have become pretty good at blocking out,” captain Sam Cane said. “We trust the coaching staff immensely, we trust the plan. It feels like we’ve built nicely to this point.”
While the All Blacks scored seven tries against Argentina, Cane is aiming for another defensive masterclass.
“History shows often a team that is defensively one of the best will end up winning the World Cup,” Cane said.
“There are a few guys in our team who are incredibly passionate about it. We have a system we really believe in.”
