EDINBURGH, Scotland (AP) — New Zealand stayed undefeated against Scotland and perfect in Nations Championship rugby after taking an entertaining contest 43-21 on Saturday.
The All Blacks edged a seven-try shootout in the first half then shut out Scotland in the second half to take the tension out of Murrayfield for the last half hour.
The Scots rued near-misses against New Zealand in their three previous matches in 2017, 2022 and 2025 but could have no regrets this time as they succumbed to the weight of making a ton of tackles in the first half and the All Blacks' brilliant execution from set-pieces in the second spell.
New Zealand improved to 4-0 in the race with unbeaten South Africa to represent the southern hemisphere in the Nov. 29 final.
Scotland's own hopes were dealt a blow as it dropped to 2-2 in the northern standings with Australia coming next.
The All Blacks overcame two yellow cards to squeak out a 24-21 halftime lead as both sides turned down comfortable penalty kicks to go for tries.
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