Scotland vs New Zealand Prediction (Nations Championship) Odds and Bets 07.11.2026

Scotland welcome back several important attacking players, including Finn Russell, Huw Jones and Blair Kinghorn. Russell’s game management will be particularly important, while Sione Tuipulotu provides another dangerous option in midfield. However, Jamie Ritchie and Elliot Millar Mills have been ruled out through injury, reducing Townsend’s forward options. New Zealand also have absentees, with Ardie Savea, Tyrel Lomax and Caleb Clarke unavailable.

The returns of Richie Mo’unga, Jordie Barrett and Anton Lienert-Brown strengthen the visitors’ squad, giving Rennie considerable experience across his backline. The main uncertainty is whether Scotland can maintain their attacking intensity without leaving too much space for New Zealand’s dangerous runners.

Scotland have the attacking quality to trouble New Zealand, particularly when Russell controls territory and creates opportunities for Tuipulotu and Kinghorn. Their 108 points across three Nations Championship matches demonstrate that they can score against strong opposition. However, conceding 97 points during those fixtures raises concerns about their defensive organisation. New Zealand have been more reliable, allowing just 70 points while scoring 121.

Their ability to attack quickly following turnovers could be particularly dangerous if Scotland lose possession in midfield or kick loosely. The All Blacks also scored 93 points across their two October victories against Australia, showing how ruthless they can be when their attacking combinations click. Scotland have kept their last two meetings with New Zealand within eight points, so I wouldn’t automatically expect a comfortable away victory. Nevertheless, the visitors’ superior finishing and defensive consistency make them my preferred selection.