The biggest event in Rugby Union is almost here, with the 2023 Rugby World Cup starting in France on the 8th of September. This first game is a huge clash between hosts France and the mighty New Zealand All Blacks, but this is just the first of many major games already on the schedule. Once the pool games are out of the way, the real action will begin. But who do we watch, when, and where? This lowdown has you covered so you won’t miss a minute of the tournament’s best games.
The Big Kick-Off – France v New Zealand
The opening game of the tournament will definitely be worth tuning in for. Most competitions start off with a low-key tie involving the host nation and the minnows of their pool, but not this year. Pool A has the words ‘group of death’ written all over it, with France, New Zealand, and Italy all in the group. Only two teams can progress, so every point counts. This match should be raucous from the start, and one of the best live rugby games you can watch this year. The tempo will be high as these big teams try to claim points that could prove vital when the pool stages are all said and done.
The Pool B Play-Off – South Africa v Ireland
Pool A may be the group getting the most attention but don’t take your eyes off Pool B either. This group is home to both South Africa and Ireland, and their game on the 23rd of September will be a big game. Both of these teams can feel confident about their chances of progression. They are both tough sides with a rich rugby history and a lot of talent in their squads. All it takes is one bad game against one of the other teams though, and either side could be out of contention. This game will decide who tops the group, and who is vulnerable when the pool stages close down and the knockout stages begin.
Battle For The Future – Wales v Georgia
These two teams should not be overlooked either. Wales are a perennially strong side and are more than capable of progressing to the knockout stages if they can keep their heads and play their game against the competition in their pool. Georgia is one of the brightest-looking teams in the cup and certainly have a bright future ahead of them. They are yet to reach the quarter-finals of a World Cup but have consistently looked strong and organized. Will this be their year? Will their success come at the cost of Wales? Tune in on the 7th of October to find out.
The standout choices from the tournament’s pool stages are these three, yet as the knockout phase commences, excitement and surprises unfold. Can South Africa effectively retain their championship? Could Ireland ultimately secure a spot in the finals? Might France, as the hosting nation, triumph and claim a World Cup victory on their home turf? Answers will emerge in the months of September and October, as the most significant Rugby Union matches kick off. Regardless of your allegiance, relish the moments ahead.
