Wallabies Coach Urges Team to Believe Ahead of All Blacks Clash

Australia’s head coach, Joe Schmidt, is urging his Wallabies to cultivate confidence ahead of their upcoming clash with the All Blacks at Eden Park on September 27, 2023. Despite an inconsistent season and a recent narrow loss to Argentina, Schmidt believes his players can secure a rare victory against New Zealand, who have not lost at home since 1994.

The Wallabies suffered a heart-wrenching 28-26 defeat against Argentina last Saturday. Although the team displayed a spirited comeback, their efforts fell just short. Schmidt noted that the team’s late resurgence has been a hallmark of their recent performances, but he acknowledged the need for improvement.

“Our belief is crucial because if you don’t believe, you’re beaten before you try,” Schmidt stated following the match. He emphasized the importance of not only maintaining faith but also enhancing the team’s performance. “We know we’ve got to be better than we were today and better than we were last week. Part of that is the start and part of that is the continuity,” he added.

Australia’s loss to Argentina showcased their struggle with slow starts. The Wallabies managed to score four tries compared to Argentina’s one, yet the kicking prowess of Santiago Carreras allowed the visitors to establish a 21-point lead. Although the Wallabies mounted a late comeback, they were unable to close the gap, a trend that has been evident in their recent matches.

Schmidt faces the challenge of balancing immediate performance goals with long-term plans as Australia prepares to host the 2027 Rugby World Cup. “We didn’t get quite where we needed to be, but we’re trying to balance that short-term focus with a long-term vision,” he explained. Schmidt is keen to ensure that his squad is ready to compete at the highest level both now and in the future.

Looking ahead to the match against the All Blacks, Schmidt expressed optimism, stating that while the team can expect to regain some key players, they must also rely on their work ethic and commitment. The Wallabies have not defeated New Zealand in nearly five years, a fact that adds pressure to the upcoming encounter.

As the Wallabies prepare for this crucial match, Schmidt’s focus remains on fostering a winning mentality within the team. The challenge is not just against the All Blacks but also about overcoming their own inconsistencies. With a blend of belief and hard work, the Wallabies hope to make history at Eden Park, a venue synonymous with New Zealand rugby dominance.