Irish rugby legend Brian O'Driscoll believes a series win over the All Blacks is a greater achievement than a spot in the semi-finals at a World Cup.
The former Grand Slam-winning captain's claim comes before the third and final test between Ireland and New Zealand in Wellington.
The tourists recorded a famous victory in the second test, and head into the decider with a chance to claim another piece of history with a series-triumph over the All Blacks.
Despite Ireland never having qualified for a World Cup semi-final, O'Driscoll claims a win on Saturday would be an ever better accomplishment.
"I think a series victory in New Zealand is greater than a semi-final of a World Cup, to be honest, it is," O'Driscoll told Off The Ball.
"It's something tangible ... there is something at the end to hold on to to be able to go, 'By the way, we beat New Zealand in their own backyard', versus 'we did great, we got to a semi-final.
"I think a more balanced argument would be - the prospect of getting to a [World Cup] final versus a series victory.
"Going into a World Cup final with it still to play versus a series victory against the All Blacks, I think that's more on par."
The All Blacks have not lost a test series at home since 1994, but head into the third test ranked two spots below their opponents following their defeat in Dunedin.
O'Driscoll understands the challenge before Ireland is still a daunting prospect, but hopes the minutes will put them in good stead for next year's World Cup.
"This is still enormous in its own right, but it doesn't mean that there isn't going to be another missed opportunity for guys to get game time, and those games are running out."
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