After seven gruelling weeks, the Rugby World Cup will end on the 28th October 2023. Will Ireland be there in the final? After a winning start, those in emerald green must surely have their hopes up of going all the way. Read ahead as we analyse whether the top ranked team in the world in the Rugby World Rankings will win it all.
Betting Odds:
Currently, despite having won their opening two games, Ireland aren’t seen as clear favourites. It is essentially a five-horse race. South Africa and France pip Ireland as favourites so far, with New Zealand and England still seen as viable contenders. Ireland will be looking to top their group to get a more favourable match-up for the quarter final – a round they’ve yet to get past.
Failing to win out against the likes of Scotland would leave the Irish with a quarter final match-up against hosts France – a match-up they’d rather avoid. France have historically got the better of their European foes, having a 15 year period where they didn’t lose to Ireland – a historic period of trouncing.
Recent Performance:
Recently however, Ireland have been the ones to beat all year. They put in dominating performances at the Six Nations earlier this year – winning the Triple Crown and only their fourth Grand Slam. These weren’t close run affairs either; every match was decided by 10 points or more.
Ireland reeled off three straight wins against the stout competition of Italy, England and Samoa in preparation for this competition. Overall, coach Andy Farrell has led his team to winning almost every game during his tenure – this team doesn’t look like slowing down yet.
Historical Achievements:
Looking to build upon a historic series win against New Zealand on the Kiwi’s home turf, the first professional side to ever do that, Ireland will know that history is against them. As previously mentioned, this side has never progressed very far beyond the group stage. In the last iteration of the World Cup, they were humbled 46-14 against a rampant All Blacks team.
Only time will tell if Ireland can reverse fortunes at this World Cup. Odds are available on the best betting sites uk for those who fancy a flutter on what should be a era-defining competition for the Irish.
Key Players:
Gibson-Park is Farrell’s go-to man at scrum-half, and he rarely disappoints. Not only is he gifted with the rock, the former Maori All-Black was part of an all-conquering Leinster side last season that only dropped one game.
Johnny Sexton is a stalwart of Irish rugby, renowned not only in Ireland but throughout the rugby world. Emerging from St. Mary’s College, Dublin, he quickly made his mark at both club and international levels, playing a pivotal role for Leinster in European competitions and for Ireland in the Six Nations and is widely considered one of the best Irish rugby players.
Experience: With multiple World Cup campaigns under his belt, Sexton’s experience is invaluable. He knows the pressure, the intensity, and what it takes to perform on the world stage.
Playmaking Abilities: At fly-half, Sexton is the team’s chief playmaker. His vision, decision-making, and execution are critical to Ireland’s attacking strategy. His tactical kicking game, in particular, is one of the best in the world.
Goal Kicking: As Ireland’s primary goal-kicker, Sexton’s boot often decides matches. His accuracy and composure under pressure mean Ireland can capitalise on scoring opportunities when they arise.
Calling time on his illustrious career at the conclusion of the World Cup, can Sexton lead his nation to glory?
Stuart McCloskey has consistently demonstrated his value as a formidable presence in the centre. Rising through the ranks, McCloskey has become an integral part of his side, offering both dynamism and a keen rugby sense.
Key Attributes:
Passing: McCloskey boasts an impressive ability to distribute the ball effectively. His sharp, accurate passes have been instrumental in setting up his teammates, often unlocking defences and creating opportunities.
Work-rate: One of the stand-out features of McCloskey’s game is his relentless work ethic. Whether it’s chasing down an opponent, securing a ruck, or contesting for the ball, he is always in the thick of the action.
Support Lines: McCloskey’s innate understanding of the game is evident in his support play. He consistently runs intelligent lines, positioning himself perfectly to receive offloads or to provide an option for the ball-carrier.
Stuart McCloskey is undoubtedly a linchpin in his side, with multifaceted skills that make him a formidable opponent. While his recent try-scoring record might have dipped, his overall contributions in various areas more than compensate. As he continues to hone his craft, there’s no doubt that McCloskey remains one to watch in the rugby world.
Ireland’s path to the final?:
In the Rugby World Cup’s matchups, Andy Farrell’s Ireland, currently the world’s top-ranked side, are set to navigate a challenging path. Their group stage is graced by the defending champions, South Africa, who have been displaying peak form by registering emphatic victories against rugby giants like the All Blacks and Wales. Ireland also faces Gregor Townsend’s skillful Scotland, who, despite not having bested Ireland since 2017, have the gifted Finn Russell, a fly-half known for his ability to strategically counteract powerhouse teams like the Springboks.
As the tournament progresses, Ireland’s potential quarter-final opponents could be either of the rugby titans, France or New Zealand. In Pool B, the margin for error is razor-thin, with a single bad outing potentially costing a top team its place. While South Africa seems like the team with momentum, their Auckland defeat against New Zealand hints at vulnerabilities. Deciphering the “easiest” path to the final is subjective, but given the prowess and recent forms of the teams, Ireland’s journey appears especially demanding.
Conclusion:
In the ever-unpredictable realm of rugby, Ireland steps into the World Cup arena with a mix of promise and challenge. While they proudly hold the status of the world’s top-ranked side, the path set before them is fraught with formidable opponents and high-stakes matchups. The very essence of Pool B underscores that there’s no room for complacency. Yet, the blend of experience, skill, and strategic acumen within the Irish ranks may just tilt the balance in their favour. The tournament promises to be a crucible of skill, will, and tactics, and while Ireland’s journey might be demanding, they possess the mettle and spirit to potentially etch another glorious chapter in their storied rugby legacy.
