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Last-gasp penalty secures NZ win over France at under-20 champs

July 5, 2024

Aki Tuivailala of New Zealand U20 scores a try during the World Rugby U20 Championship 2024 match between France and New Zealand. (Source: Getty)

New Zealand has made a stunning comeback against France at the under-20 championships in South Africa.

A late penalty kick from first-five Rico Simpson gave the Kiwis the lead in the 81st minute to secure a 27-26 victory.

The assistant referees behind the posts didn't raise their flags however, and the TMO had to intervene to confirm whether the kick had gone over or not - it clearly had.

The 'Baby Blacks' have two wins from two in Pool A, after they defeated Wales 41-34 on Sunday.

Their final pool match is against Spain next Wednesday morning.

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