How the world’s media reacted to the All Blacks’ 26-13 victory over Ireland in Chicago. The All Blacks started their Grand Slam pursuit with a grinding 26-13 win over Ireland in Chicago but face a nervous wait over the fate of Barrett brothers Scott and Jordie.

Phil Gifford is a Contributing Sports Writer for NZME. He is one of the most-respected voices in New Zealand sports journalism. The All Blacks overcame a poor first half to defeat Ireland 26-13 in Chicago.

Tadhg Beirne was shown a contentious early red card as Ireland 's quest to create more special memories in Chicago ended in an emphatic 26-13 loss to New Zealand.

Some praised the win as a spirited comeback, while others emphasised the Irish side's collapse in the second-half.

Ireland had not made the most of opportunities to add scores in the second and third quarters of the game in Chicago

New Zealand starting XV: 15 Will Jordan, 14 Leroy Carter, 13 Quinn Tupaea, 12 Jordie Barrett, 11 Caleb Clarke, 10 Beauden Barrett, 9 Cam Roigard, 1 Ethan de Groot, 2 Codie Taylor, 3 Fletcher Newell, 4 Scott Barrett (captain), 5 Fabian Holland, 6 Simon Parker, 7 Ardie Savea, 8 Peter Lakai.

Ireland threatened a repeat of their 2016 heroics at Soldier Field as they opened up a 10-0 lead, courtesy of a Jack Crowley penalty and a Tadhg Furlong try, despite being down a man due to Tadhg Beirne’s red card – more on that shortly.

Scott Robertson’s side begin their quest to become the fifth All Blacks side to win a Grand Slam, and it starts in Chicago, of all places. Not your typical launching pad for a Grand Slam (the 1978 side started their tour at Cambridge University).