Rugby World Cup 2011: New Zealand v Argentina - in pictures

Legend has it that New Zealand's North Island was fished from the seas by the young Maui using a magic hook which now lies in the shallows off Ninety Mile Beach. Judging from the look of the Argentinian players today, the All Blacks will need a damn sight more than a magic hook to reel these brutes in Photograph: Phil Walter/Getty Images

Nonetheless, New Zealand are outright favourites going into this match. And with the bullocking runs of Sonny Bill Williams, Ma'a Nonu and Conrad Smith to contend with through the centre, the Argentinians must be at their best to stand any chance Photograph: Phil Walter/Getty Images

Piri Weepu kicks the opening points of the match for the hosts, but the majority of the fans in the stadium gasp as Leonardo Senatore bolts from a scrum and feeds Felipe Contepomi, whose deft handling sends the visitors within two yards of the try-line … Julio Farias Cabello is quickest at the break-down and he picks and drives for a stunning try Photograph: David Rogers/Getty Images

They look just about as shocked as anyone Photograph: Jacky Naegelen/Reuters

Cory Jane takes a hit as the All Blacks search for a response Photograph: Hannah Johnston/Getty Images

The All Blacks captain Richie McCaw goes head over heels in pursuit of the ball - not the best idea for someone carrying an injury Photograph: William West/AFP/Getty Images

Piri Weepu, who has been handed kicking duties in the absence of the injured Dan Carter, slots two penalties to nudge his side in front and make it 12-7 at the turn Photograph: David Rogers/Getty Images

That slender lead has come at a price though, as Colin Slade, Carter's replacement first five-eighth, pulls up with a suspected groin injury and has to be replaced by Manawatu's Aaron Cruden Photograph: Hannah Johnston/Getty Images

The All Blacks are playing with greater freedom and fluency in the second half and when Kieran Read darts over from Weepu's pass, the home fans finally have a chance to sing their celebratory anthem by The Exponents Photograph: Phil Walter/Getty Images

The Argentinians haven't given up hope. Cruden is denied a score by a late barge from Juan José Imhoff Photograph: Kim Ludbrook/EPA

But the All Blacks are cruising now. Brad Thorn crosses the try-line after Jimmy Cowan's breakaway to gloss the scoreline (it ends 33-10) and confirm their place in the semi-finals next weekend Photograph: Christophe Ena/AP

Phew, seems to be the expression writ on Richie McCaw's face. Wonder what'll happen to his bovine counterpart, Richie McCow, now? Photograph: Hannah Johnston/Getty Images