This archive report was first published on 21 September 2019.
On September 21, 2019, the All Blacks kicked off their World Cup campaign with a 23-13 victory over arch-rivals South Africa, but coach Steve Hansen was quick to point out areas that needed improvement.
While pleased with the team's defense and low penalty count, Hansen identified the forwards as a key area that required attention. He noted that the set piece was not up to par, which hindered the team's ability to gain momentum.
However, Hansen was optimistic about the team's potential, stating, "We won, so you have to be happy with that. Were we perfect? No, but you're never going to be at this stage of the tournament."
He also praised the team's ability to adjust and improve as the game progressed, saying, "The boys adjusted okay and as they game wore on they've got more fluid with it, but it's always going to be a titanic struggle and it's an area we're just continually working on."
The All Blacks' next game is against Canada on Wednesday in a pool that also includes Namibia and Italy.
