Stade de France – France
The second quarter-final of the Rugby World Cup 2023 promises to be nothing short of spectacular, as the world’s number one ranked team, Ireland, faces off against the three-time champions, New Zealand, in a quest for a spot in the semi-finals.
This clash is a spine-tingling encounter that has sent ripples of anticipation through rugby fans across the globe.
Ireland’s Steady Path
Ireland’s head coach, Andy Farrell, has demonstrated his confidence in the starting lineup that convincingly triumphed over Scotland in their previous outing. They are now on a mission to secure a semi-final berth for the first time in their history.
The only alterations to the match-day team are on the bench, with Joe McCarthy stepping in for the injured James Ryan in the second row, and Jimmy O’Brien taking Stuart McCloskey’s place.
New Zealand’s Quest for Redemption
New Zealand, after facing an unexpected loss during the pool phase, is determined not to see their tournament end at this quarter-final stage for just the second time in their storied history. The previous occurrence was at RWC 2007, hosted by France, adding extra significance to this encounter.
While Ireland has achieved victory in five of the eight most recent matches against New Zealand, it’s essential to acknowledge the rich history between these two rugby powerhouses. New Zealand enjoyed an impressive 27 wins and a single draw in their 28 previous encounters dating back to November 1905, prior to Ireland’s significant breakthrough in Chicago in 2016.
Ireland’s historic 40-29 win at Soldier Field in Chicago, in November 2016, remains etched in memory. However, their last Rugby World Cup clash with New Zealand, four years ago at the quarter-final stage, yielded a different outcome. On that occasion, the All Blacks secured a comprehensive 46-14 victory, effectively ending Joe Schmidt’s tenure with the Irish team. Schmidt is now contributing his expertise to New Zealand.
Records and Milestones
Johnny Sexton, who is set to retire after the Rugby World Cup, continues to make history. This match marks his 18th encounter against the All Blacks, surpassing Alun Wyn Jones (17) for the most tests by any Northern Hemisphere player against New Zealand. Additionally, if Conor Murray comes off the bench for his 18th Rugby World Cup appearance, he will surpass the joint record of tournament matches held by Brian O’Driscoll and Paul O’Connell for Ireland.
Lineups
Ireland
- Hugo Keenan
- Mack Hansen
- Garry Ringrose
- Bundee Aki
- James Lowe
- Johnny Sexton (Captain)
- Jamison Gibson-Park
- Andrew Porter
- Dan Sheehan
- Tadhg Furlong
- Tadhg Beirne
- Iain Henderson
- Peter O’Mahony
- Josh van der Flier
- Caelan Doris
Replacements: Ronan Kelleher, Dave Kilcoyne, Finlay Bealham, Joe McCarthy, Jack Conan, Conor Murray, Jack Crowley, Jimmy O’Brien
New Zealand
- Beauden Barrett
- Will Jordan
- Rieko Ioane
- Jordie Barrett
- Leicester Fainga’anuku
- Richie Mo’unga
- Aaron Smith
- Ethan de Groot
- Codie Taylor
- Tyrel Lomax
- Brodie Retallick
- Scott Barrett
- Shannon Frizell
- Sam Cane (Captain)
- Ardie Savea
Replacements: Dane Coles, Tamaiti Williams, Fletcher Newell, Samuel Whitelock, Dalton Papali’i, Finlay Christie, Damian McKenzie, Anton Lienert-Brown
The Referee: Wayne Barnes (England)
Wayne Barnes, an experienced referee from England, will oversee this high-stakes encounter. Notably, Barnes was in charge when Ireland secured their series decider victory against New Zealand in Wellington in July 2022 and also during Ireland’s first-ever win over the All Blacks in Dublin in 2018.
A Clash of Titans: Ireland vs. New Zealand
Ireland faces the daunting task of confronting the All Blacks, a team that currently holds the fourth position in the world rankings but remains a formidable opponent.
Ireland has never advanced beyond the quarter-finals, making this year’s competition their best opportunity to break the spell.
Although the All Blacks are not counted out, they enter the quarter-finals as the underdogs. It’s a twist of fate that the last time they exited the World Cup was in 2007 when the tournament was last held in France, a significant 16 years ago.
The All Blacks have quietly navigated this tournament, with few predictions favoring them to claim the title. They are accustomed to being in situations where they are not the favorites, and it serves as motivation.
The Irish crowd’s support is expected to play a crucial role, especially when the game tightens. However, the initial stages of the match will be crucial, and a strong start by Ireland can set a positive tone. If not, New Zealand possesses the capability to seize control.
In conclusion, this battle is poised to be one of the most anticipated fixtures in the Rugby World Cup 2023. While Ireland may start as favorites according to bookies, the All Blacks are determined to prove their mettle. It’s a high-pressure clash with a thrilling narrative that promises to keep fans on the edge of their seats.
I will go with the All Blacks here, but I am bias. I really think if they play to their full potential, which they have to, they can come away with the chocolates. The Irish will start as favourite with the bookies, which puts more pressure on them.
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