Wales produced a striking response to the All Blacks' traditional Haka before their match at the Principality Stadium, with the staging earning widespread praise from fans around the world.
The pre-match display, named 'Dragon's Breath' by the Welsh Rugby Union, saw Steve Tandy's players illuminated by a deep red glow with smoke billowing around them as New Zealand performed their challenge beneath a single spotlight.
A dramatic staging at Principality Stadium
With the stadium roof closed and the lights dimmed, the All Blacks delivered their Haka before Wales answered with a dramatic display of their own. The red lighting created an extraordinary backdrop to one of rugby's most iconic pre-match rituals.
The imagery made a strong impression, with supporters taking to social media to praise the staging and hail Wales' response.
Fans praise the spectacle
One supporter wrote: "That was a class Haka…pure Hollywood with the spotlight and the red background." Another said: "That was some staging for the Haka. Well done to whoever set that up!"
A third added: "I think Welsh organisers raised the Haka spectacle by quite a few notches there." The response was also praised for its visual impact, with one supporter writing: "The Haka being performed in the spotlight with the roof closed at The Principality Stadium to give this effect while the Welsh are illuminated by a red cloud is incredible. What imagery!"
A nod to history
Another said: "Whatever the score and inevitable result, it is clear that Wales have found the most successful response to the Haka..."
The presentation also nodded to the rich history between the two nations. Their famous 1905 meeting at Cardiff Arms Park saw the Welsh crowd respond to the All Blacks' Haka by singing Hen Wlad Fy Nhadau, creating one of the most enduring moments in Welsh rugby history. More than a century later, the Welsh anthem was sung a capella before the Haka took centre stage.
