Three-time champions New Zealand ran in 14 tries to destroy Italy 96-17 for a bonus-point victory in the Rugby World Cup.
The victory swiftly shrugs off any doubts about the All Blacks’ ability to go deep into this tournament, even if top spot in Pool A will ultimately be beyond them.
The All Blacks, with lock Sam Whitelock celebrating a record 149th cap, showed no mercy at Lyon's Parc OL.
Aaron Smith notched a hat-trick with two tries apiece for Dane Coles, Will Jordan and Ardie Savea.
Mark Tele’a, Brodie Retallick, Dalton Papali'i, Damian McKenzie and Anton Lienert-Brown also scored with all but one converted by Richie Mo'unga and McKenzie added four kicks off the bench.
Italy's hopes of an upset quickly went up in smoke and they only got on the scoreboard thanks to second-half tries by Ange Capuozzo and Montanna Ioane as well as points from the tee by Tommaso Allan and Paolo Garbisi.
So deadly by the @AllBlacks 🔥
— Rugby World Cup (@rugbyworldcup) September 29, 2023
Mark Telea finishes off a stunning break!#RWC2023 | #NZLvITA pic.twitter.com/N3yrJo5I9w
The result puts New Zealand in second place with 10 points, ahead of the Azzurri on points difference and three points behind group leaders France, who will take on Italy next Friday, one day after the All Blacks face Uruguay.
