The first Rugby World Cup kicked off with a thrilling opening match between New Zealand and Italy at Eden Park in Auckland. The match was witnessed by thousands of fans, marking a significant occasion in the history of rugby union. New Zealand, known for its strong rugby tradition and skilled players, entered the tournament as one of the favorites while Italy was seen as an underdog. The All Blacks, as the New Zealand team is affectionately known, dominated the match from start to finish, showcasing their prowess with a scoreline that illustrated their rugby philosophy of attacking play combined with solid defense.

This tournament was not only a sporting event; it was a celebration of the sport itself. The Rugby World Cup was created to elevate the game on a global scale, introducing a competition format reminiscent of other major sporting events like the FIFA World Cup in soccer. The decision to hold such a prestigious competition in New Zealand highlighted the country's deep connection to rugby, as well as its capacity to host international events. The local response was overwhelming, with fans rallying behind their team.

This match laid the foundation for what would become one of sports' most prestigious and watched competitions. The excitement generated by the opening match, and indeed the whole tournament, propelled rugby into a new era, drawing more fans and enthusiasts into the fold as the All Blacks would go on to set and break numerous rugby records in the years that followed.