This archive report was first published on 26 October 2019.
On October 26, 2019, New Zealand was left stunned after the All Blacks' World Cup semi-final defeat at the hands of a superior England side.
England's 19-7 victory in Yokohama marked the end of the All Blacks' 18-match unbeaten run in World Cup games, a streak that began with their victory over Tonga at the start of the 2011 tournament.
Despite being overwhelming favourites to beat England and win the World Cup final in Japan, the All Blacks never looked threatening against a spirited and superior English team.
Former All Blacks fly-half Stephen Donald acknowledged the team's struggles, saying, "If they (the All Blacks) can get out of this it will be a hell of an effort," during the live broadcast of the match.
The New Zealand media was unanimous in their assessment, with many crediting England's superior performance as the reason for the All Blacks' defeat.
