New Zealand has been crowned rugby world champion for the first time in 24 years after pipping France to the title by a single point.
Tony Woodcock's early try and a penalty from fly-half Stephen Donald were enough to see the All Blacks win 8-7 in a tense match that defied all expectations.
France appeared to be close to causing a major upset after captain Thierry Dusatoir's try with half an hour remaining set up a nerve-wracking finale.
But Francois Trinh-Duc missed a long-range penalty before desperate defense saw the New Zealand cling on for a famous win.
compiled from agency reports
Tony Woodcock's early try and a penalty from fly-half Stephen Donald were enough to see the All Blacks win 8-7 in a tense match that defied all expectations.
France appeared to be close to causing a major upset after captain Thierry Dusatoir's try with half an hour remaining set up a nerve-wracking finale.
But Francois Trinh-Duc missed a long-range penalty before desperate defense saw the New Zealand cling on for a famous win.
compiled from agency reports
