The British and Irish Lions have delivered a stunning performance at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), clinching their first series victory against Australia since 2013 with a thrilling 29-26 win in the second Test on July 26, 2025. This unforgettable match saw the Lions overcome an 18-point deficit to seal a 2-0 lead in the series ahead of the final Test in Sydney next Saturday, August 2, which could complete a clean 3-0 sweep.
From the outset, the Wallabies displayed immense power and momentum, with towering lock Will Skelton setting the tone in a bruising first half. Australia capitalized on this dominance with tries from James Slipper, Jake Gordon, and Tom Wright, alongside the formidable presence of Rob Valetini, who consistently punched through the Lions' defense. This front-foot rugby gave the Wallabies a commanding 23-5 lead, thrilling the 90,307-strong crowd at the iconic MCG.
However, the Lions refused to be overwhelmed. Inspired by a quickfire double from Tom Curry and Huw Jones before halftime, and a crucial score from Tadhg Beirne, the visitors began to claw their way back. England captain Maro Itoje, delivering a man-of-the-match performance, emphasized the team's resilience and collective effort. "It feels a little surreal. The first 20 minutes we weren’t great, we managed to find a way, it wasn’t perfect but we got there," Itoje reflected in a post-match interview with Sky Sports. He credited the bench for making a massive difference and highlighted how the scrum and decision-making improved in the second half.
As the second half unfolded, the Lions' determination shone through. The team’s tactical discipline and superior game management in key playmaking positions, particularly in the 10 and 12 channels, began to tip the balance. This composure contrasted with Australia's flashes of brilliance that lacked consistency to maintain control. The Lions’ ability to build pressure and convert opportunities was evident as they scored each time they entered the 22-meter area.
The climax of this epic encounter came in the dying moments when Hugo Keenan, who had not been known for prolific try-scoring, dashed over for a dramatic last-gasp try. This score was the only time the Lions led in the match and ultimately secured the victory. The try’s legitimacy was briefly questioned after Jac Morgan’s clearout of Carlo Tizzano was reviewed by officials. The decision was upheld, with the clearout deemed legal, sparking wild celebrations among the Lions and their fans.
Keenan expressed his delight after the match, saying, "You don’t really think of these things — with my try-scoring record, I was probably the least likely! I’m absolutely delighted. It came off the back of countless phases of hard work from the lads. It was a pretty cool moment — one I’ll definitely savour." This try was a testament to the team’s relentless effort and unity throughout the Test.
Head coach Andy Farrell described the victory as "what dreams are made of," acknowledging the occasion and the passionate traveling supporters. "It’s amazing, the occasion and the fans travelling out. They deserve it don’t they? It wasn’t too great in the first half, with penalties and yellow cards but we found a way to get back into the game. We scored each time we got into the 22, and when we were able to build pressure we came away with something. We had solid belief at half time and it was there in the end," Farrell told Sky Sports. He also praised the Australian team’s commitment, stating, "Australia said they were going to show up and they certainly did that. We want to win every game, but we’ll enjoy tonight and travel to Sydney tomorrow."
This victory marked the Lions' biggest-ever comeback in a Test match and their first series win in 12 years. Statistically, this Lions team has joined an elite group, becoming only the second to go 2-0 up in a series in the last 28 years, the third in 51 years, and the seventh since the inception of the series in 1888. Young Lions player Henry Pollock had set the ambitious tone before the tour, stating, "We want to come here and be the best Lions team ever… 3-0 is definitely on the table." With the series now secured, the Lions are eager to finish the job in Sydney with a clean sweep.
The match was officiated by referee Andrea Piardi from FIR, with assistant referees Nika Amashukeli (GRU) and Ben O’Keeffe (NZR). The Television Match Official (TMO) was Eric Gauzins (FFR), and the Foul Play Review Officer (FPRO) was Marius Jonker (SARU).
The Lions' lineup for this Test included nine Irish players and was captained by Maro Itoje. Notable changes from the Brisbane victory saw Andrew Porter replace Ellis Genge at loosehead prop, Ollie Chessum start ahead of Joe McCarthy at lock, and Huw Jones come in for the injured Sione Tuipulotu. The full starting lineup featured Hugo Keenan at fullback, Tommy Freeman and Huw Jones on the wings, Bundee Aki and James Lowe in the centers, Finn Russell at fly-half, and Jamison Gibson-Park at scrum-half. The pack was anchored by Jack Conan, Tom Curry, Tadhg Beirne, Ollie Chessum, Maro Itoje, Tadhg Furlong, Dan Sheehan, and Andrew Porter.
Australia welcomed back key players including Will Skelton, Dave Porecki, and Rob Valetini. Their starting XV featured Tom Wright, Max Jorgensen, Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii, Len Ikitau, Harry Potter, Tom Lynagh, Jake Gordon, and captain Harry Wilson among others.
The atmosphere at the MCG was electric, with nearly 100,000 fans witnessing a classic Test match filled with contention, colossal contacts, and moments of sheer magic. The Lions’ comeback has reignited belief in Australian rugby and demonstrated once again the unique spirit and quality of the British and Irish Lions.
Looking ahead, the Lions will travel to Sydney's Accor Stadium for the final Test on August 2, 2025, with kick-off set for 11:00 BST. The team will be aiming not only to secure the series but to make history with a clean 3-0 sweep, a feat that would cement their place among the greats of Lions lore.
