2003 World Cup Final Loss
The All Blacks fell to Australia in the semi-finals of the 2003 Rugby World Cup, while England edged Australia in a dramatic final decided by Jonny Wilkinson's extra-time drop goal.
The 2003 Rugby World Cup final was a historic match played on 22 November 2003 at Stadium Australia in Sydney, where England defeated Australia 20-17 after extra time. The All Blacks had been eliminated by Australia in the semi-finals, finishing third overall.
Quick Facts
- Opponent
- Australia (semi-final)
- Final score
- 22-10 – Australia vs New Zealand (semi-final)
- Deciding moment
- Australia's defensive stand and tries from Stirling Mortlock and George Gregan (semi-final)
Lore & Background
The All Blacks' 2003 Rugby World Cup campaign ended in heartbreak with a 22-10 semi-final loss to Australia. England went on to win the final 20-17 after extra time, thanks to Jonny Wilkinson's iconic drop goal. The All Blacks' captain was Reuben Thorne, not Tana Umaga.
Reader's Guide
The tournament followed the format introduced in the 1999 Cricket World Cup, with 14 teams divided into two groups of seven. The top three from each group qualified for the Super Sixes stage, carrying forward results against other qualifiers. The top four in the Super Sixes advanced to the semi-finals.
More in Club History
Elsewhere in New Zealand All Blacks
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