The Rugby World Cup is about to ignite this weekend as the pool stages have come to a close, with the quarter-finals kicking off on Saturday afternoon.
Within each of the four fixtures, there are many talking points, so let’s explore the five most important narratives.
Ireland can make their first World Cup semi-final
The Irish have suffered multiple heartbreaks in the quarter-finals of the competition, with this weekend’s opponents inflicting a thorough defeat at this stage in Japan four years ago.
Yet, Ireland enter this fixture as favourites for the first time ever following their maiden test series victory in New Zealand last year.
Andy Farrell has built upon the foundations laid by Joe Schmidt, making Ireland the number-one-ranked team in the world. However, with Schmidt part of the Kiwi coaching ticket, all the Englishman’s work could be destroyed by his previous mentor.
The All Blacks have the ability to end the 17-win run that the Irish are on to send them crashing out in what is expected to be a belter of a game.
South Africa looking to end the French dream
Hosts France play the current World Cup champions in Paris on Sunday. The game could decide the winners of the competition as the sides remain among the favourites to lift the trophy.
Antoine Dupont has made a rapid return to play following his fractured cheekbone, adding a world-class touch to the French side.
South Africa are an imposing preposition standing in the way of the bleus as they look to win their first ever World Cup.
Rassie Erasmus has got the Springboks ticking in defence, and with the recent addition of Handrè Pollard to the squad, he has addressed their kicking problems.
Fiji eyeing history against England
Fiji could create momentous history should the Pacific nation defeat a giant in such an important stage of the tournament.
Fiji have long been fans second team, as the flying Fijians play the most entertaining rugby any individual could watch. However, this has not always ended in success.
Simon Raiwalui has brought structure to the Fijians, making them one of the elite rugby nations, but he has maintained their fearful flair.
England will be wary of the challenge that faces them, as Fiji secured their first ever victory in Twickenham in August.
Warren Gatland targets more quarter-final success
Warren Gatland’s World Cup record is immense despite never winning the tournament, having lost only three of 19 pool games.
The rugby world was dismissive of the Welsh decision to reappoint Gatland; however, the New Zealander has brought a newfound sense of belief.
Argentina stands in the way of the World Cup semi-final as the Pumas look to qualify for this stage for the third time.
Marseille is the venue as Argentina look to secure their seventh-ever victory over the Welsh.
Farrell and Smith start for England
George Ford, deemed the hero of Marseille as he scored every point in England’s victory against Argentina, has been dropped.
His impressive game management has been deemed only fit for a place on the bench.
England captain Owen Farrell replaces Ford at fly half, with Borthwick believing that the Saracens player holds the key to driving them into the semis.
Freddie Steward has been replaced by Marcus Smith at full back, shocking many as the English head coach has gone for the more creative option against Fiji.
Featured Image: © Craig Boyd via Wiki Commons
