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New Zealand win Rugby World Cup

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New Zealand huddle round the Webb Ellis CupImage source, PA
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New Zealand backed up their 2011 win and are rugby union's first three-time world champions

New Zealand held off a fierce Australian comeback to win a thrilling World Cup final and become the first team to retain their title.

The match at Twickenham saw the All Blacks win 34 - 17 over Australia.

Image source, Getty Images
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Tevita Kuridrani's try gave Australia real hope, but New Zealand regained control

Tries from Nehe Milner-Skudder and Ma'a Nonu had given the All Blacks a 21-3 lead early in the second half before David Pocock and Tevita Kuridrani struck back.

Image source, Reuters
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Dan Carter's penalty helped New Zealand regain control

With 15 minutes to go there were just four points in it, but a long-distance drop-goal and penalty from Dan Carter snatched back control.

Image source, AP
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Beauden Barrett's last-gasp try was the icing on the cake for the world champion All Blacks

And when replacement Beauden Barrett sprinted away to score a try in the final moments of the match, history was made.

The win also meant that New Zealand have become world champions for a record third time.