Wales coach Rob Howley has insisted that his side must start well when they take on New Zealand on Saturday in Cardiff.
Wales come into the game on the back of consecutive defeats to Argentina and Samoa, but Howley insists that in order to challenge the All Blacks, Wales must prevent the visitors from taking an early lead.
"When you're playing against the world's best side, every minute counts," said Howley.
"What you don't want to give them is an early opportunity to get on the score board. It's absolutely vital that we start well.
"Having looked back at the last game when we played them in 2010, it's important to dominate possession and territory early on.
"It's a special game when you play New Zealand, history has shown that. From a player's perspective you have to use what's happened over the last two weeks to be better. We've spoken about that and using it as motivation."
New Zealand had originally named Dan Carter in the starting line-up for Saturday but the Crusaders fly-half has been forced to withdraw through injury, allowing Aaron Cruden to step into the role.
"Aaron Cruden has been pretty special in the Rugby Championship when he's had a chance, he's a real running threat with ball in hand," added Howley.
"Nothing changes for us. Obviously he's right footed as opposed to left footed and things change defensively a little bit but there are some special players in that All Blacks side."
Wales have also been forced to make a change from their original XV after George North was forced to drop out due to a hip injury, giving Scarlets flyer Liam Williams a chance to impress.
"Liam has settled in really well. George took a bang early in the week so Liam has prepared in and out over the last four days," said Howley.
"He's very comfortable on the ball. Obviously he's played on the left wing before and played full back so his aerial skills are very good and he's a finisher.
"He may not have the physical attributes of George but he's very quick and we want to make use of that speed, get the ball to our wings and give them more opportunities than they have in recent weeks.
"When you play New Zealand you have to ask them questions with ball in hand and think out of the box. It's high risk and high reward so we're looking forward to that."
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