"Shambolic" - Fans react to Rugby World Cup quarter-final draw
Rugby NewsSunday, 08 October 2023 at 19:46
In the upcoming Rugby World Cup quarter-finals, two of the world rankingt's top four teams are set to exit the competition before reaching the semi-finals, creating a buzz of anticipation among fans and sparking discussions on social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter).
In what hindsight reveals as a misjudgment, the announcement of the pools for the 2023 competition took place on December 14, 2020, nearly three years prior to the commencement of the World Cup in France.
The reigning champions, the Springboks, are on a collision course with the host nation, France, in what promises to be a thrilling showdown. This eagerly awaited clash is scheduled to kick off at 9 pm on Sunday, 15 October, at the iconic venue of Paris' Stade de France.
Adding to the drama, Ireland will take on the formidable New Zealand side in another blockbuster battle at the same venue on Saturday. With one of these top teams set to bow out, the stakes couldn't be higher.
Meanwhile, Fiji is poised to advance from Pool C, while Argentina, England, and Wales have already secured their spots in the playoffs. The fixture lineup is undeniably intriguing, given the apparent disparities in the strength of the teams involved. Fans and pundits alike are voicing their opinions on the matter, creating a wave of anticipation and excitement in the rugby world.
Irish Independent scribe Rúaidhrí O'Connor wrote: "Can never be said enough. The draw for this World Cup is an utter disgrace - the best four teams in the world are so superior to the rest it's incredible and they have to play each other next week. It's wrong."
One fan wrote: "The schedule and draws have been shambolic this world cup."
Another said: "England and Wales have been shite leading up to the world cup. A lopsided draw has favoured both of them. There both unbeaten.....somehow! But I have no idea?? Ok!"
A third commented: "Maybe next cycle they will draw the pools later so they are more accurate when we reach the world cup."
England’s route to the 2023 Rugby World Cup final revealed
Let's venture into the realm of imagination and explore the potential trajectory that awaits Borthwick's formidable team.
Quarter-final: England v Fiji
After a historic defeat to the Pacific Islanders last month, England is poised to seek redemption in the quarter-finals. Steve Borthwick's squad aims to erase the memory of their lackluster performance, and with their recent form, they stand a strong chance of advancing to the semi-finals.
Caleb Muntz of Fiji kicks the ball out of play and celebrates with team mates the win over England during the Summer International match between England and Fiji at Twickenham Stadium on August 26, 2023 in London, England. ( Photo by Phil Mingo/PPAUK )
Semi-final: England v France (or South Africa)
If the French can secure victory against South Africa in the quarter-finals, they will face England in Paris in the next stage. Despite Dupont's injury, he will be available for the match. However, England might capitalise on a fatigued French team that expended every ounce of effort to eliminate the Springboks in the previous round.
Antoine Dupont of France during the Guinness Six Nations match between England and France at Twickenham Stadium, Twickenham, London on Saturday 11th March 2023 | Photo: James Fearn/PPAUK.
Final: England v Ireland (or New Zealand, Wales or Argentina)
To be the best you've got to beat the best. Steve Borthwick's men will have to beat the number one side in the world if they're to lift the Webb Ellis Cup for a second time.
Jonathan Sexton, Captain of Ireland looks dejected during the Guinness Six Nations Match between England and Ireland at Twickenham Stadium, Twickenham, London on February 23. - PHOTO: Tom Sandberg/PPAUK
PARTNERS LINKS:
- Win a signed England jersey with Charles Tyrwhitt
- Find your local Greene King pub to watch the rugby
- Secure your seat for the Six Nations with viagogo
- Visit our World Cup travel guide with Omio
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