With Ireland preparing to face the All Blacks once again, memories of one of the most talked-about haka moments in Rugby World Cup history have resurfaced.
Ahead of the 2019 Rugby World Cup quarter-final in Tokyo, Irish supporters attempted something rarely seen during New Zealand’s famous pre-match challenge.
Rather than standing in silence, thousands of fans inside Tokyo Stadium broke into a passionate rendition of The Fields of Athenry, attempting to drown out the haka as TJ Perenara led the All Blacks.
On television, the traditional Irish anthem was so loud that the haka itself was barely audible, creating one of the most unique atmospheres ever witnessed before an international rugby match.
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Ireland’s haka response
As the All Blacks lined up to perform the haka, Ireland’s travelling support sang in unison, creating what many described as a “home atmosphere” despite being over 9,000 miles from Dublin.
The moment quickly went viral on social media, with fans split over whether it was a brilliant show of support or an unnecessary attempt to disrupt one of rugby’s most iconic traditions.
Unfortunately for Ireland, the contest that followed could hardly have gone worse.
New Zealand raced into an early lead and never looked back, producing one of their finest World Cup displays to demolish Joe Schmidt’s side 46-14 and end Ireland’s tournament at the quarter-final stage once again.
By the opening 10 minutes, the All Blacks had already taken control, with tries flowing as they overwhelmed Ireland in every department.
Steve Hansen’s reaction
After the match, then All Blacks head coach Steve Hansen was asked about the deafening noise created by the Irish supporters.
Rather than criticising the fans, Hansen praised the atmosphere.
“They don’t mind travelling for a party,” Hansen said.
“It was sort of like a home match for them. Kiwis are quieter. We don’t mind a party but we’re not as boisterous.”
While Hansen refused to suggest the singing had motivated his players, many supporters felt the atmosphere only added to New Zealand’s intensity before kick-off.
EDITORS PICKS:
The five most legendary Haka’s of all-time (Ranked)
From World Cup finals to unforgettable encounters, some performances have transcended rugby itself. These are the five greatest Haka moments of all time, ranked for their intensity, significance and lasting impact.
5 2023 World Cup final
Carrying the weight of a rivalry that stretched back decades, the 2023 World Cup final Haka set the tone for New Zealand’s battle with South Africa in Paris.
The All Blacks delivered Kapa o Pango with fierce intensity, directing their challenge at a side renowned for physicality and resilience. Although the result did not go their way, the performance captured the emotion, pride and pressure of rugby’s biggest occasion.
4 2017 Women’s World Cup final
A historic night in Belfast began with the Black Ferns delivering a Haka filled with purpose before their World Cup final against England. New Zealand’s performance reflected the unity and confidence of a team chasing another world title.
More than a traditional challenge, it represented the culture and identity behind the jersey. The intensity of the moment perfectly matched the occasion before the Black Ferns produced a memorable championship victory.