"Shocking" - Third country banned from the 2027 Rugby World Cup

 Wales face a big opener vs Argentina but have a strong chance to top this pool. Samoa adds intrigue as the dark horse.

Paraguay’s road to the 2027 Rugby World Cup has ended in heartbreak — the South American side has been banned from qualification after fielding an ineligible player in their playoff win over Brazil.

Los Yacares thought they’d secured their place in the Final Qualification Tournament with a 70–43 aggregate triumph over their fierce rivals, sparking wild celebrations at home.

But those celebrations didn’t last long.

The Paraguayan Rugby Union (URP) later discovered that an ineligible player had featured in both matches. After reporting the issue themselves, Paraguay were forced to withdraw from the competition.

That means Brazil — the team they beat — will now take their place in Dubai, where they’ll face Samoa, Namibia, and Belgium for the final spot at Australia 2027.

Both Brazil and Belgium are chasing their first-ever Rugby World Cup appearance, and will enter as underdogs against two experienced sides.

Paraguay become the third team banned from qualifying, following Russia and Belarus — both of whom were suspended by World Rugby in 2022 after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

Russia was banned due to its direct involvement in the invasion, while Belarus was sanctioned for its role in supporting the attack. Both national unions remain suspended “until further notice,” ruling them out of all international and cross-border competitions.

Organisers have confirmed the Rugby World Cup Draw will take place on 3 December 2025 – and it’s set to be a blockbuster

With the new six-pool format confirmed, here’s a projected draw based on current World Rugby Rankings — with Wales sitting in Band 2.

South Africa (Band 1) — Reigning World Champions, famed for their physical dominance and tactical brilliance.

Australia (Band 2) — Rugby hosts with a rich history and a passionate home crowd.

Japan (Band 3) — High-paced attackers who stunned the world in 2019.

Portugal (Band 4) — Rising force in European rugby, known for their scrappy determination.

? Storyline: South Africa vs Australia could be a World Cup final preview — Portugal and Japan will battle for third place.

Ireland (Band 1) — Consistently at the top of world rugby, masters of strategic play.

Scotland (Band 2) — Brave and battle-hardened, with a history of giant-killing performances.

Spain (Band 3) — Emerging side bringing flair and unpredictability.

Romania (Band 4) — Rugby stalwarts with physical forward packs.

? Storyline: Ireland and Scotland renew their rivalry in a high-stakes pool. Spain could cause an upset.

New Zealand (Band 1) — The All Blacks, rugby royalty with speed, skill, and killer instinct.

Fiji (Band 2) — Fijian flair and athleticism make them dangerous in any matchup.

USA (Band 3) — Big, athletic squad with growing ambitions.

Hong Kong China (Band 4) — Developing team looking to make an impact on the world stage.

? Storyline: Expect fireworks between New Zealand and Fiji; USA and Hong Kong will battle for the third spot.

France (Band 1) — World Cup hosts in 2023, dynamic attackers, crowd favourites.

Italy (Band 2) — Tough, resilient side with big scrummaging power.

Tonga (Band 3) — Physical, passionate, unpredictable warriors.

Canada (Band 4) — Experienced team, looking to build consistency.

? Storyline: France should lead this pool, but Tonga’s unpredictability makes this one dangerous.

England (Band 1) — Powerful, well-drilled side with a deep tactical playbook.

Georgia (Band 2) — Known for a dominant forward pack and fierce defence.

Uruguay (Band 3) — South American fighters with resilience to match their passion.

Zimbabwe (Band 4) — Underdogs aiming to shock the world.

? Storyline: England’s depth makes them favourites, but Georgia could make it interesting.

Argentina (Band 1) — Tough, skilled, and battle-tested with World Cup pedigree.

Wales (Band 2) — Six Nations contenders with a blend of power and precision.

Chile (Band 3) — South American dark horse making their mark.

Samoa (Band 4) — Fierce underdogs with a proud history and attacking flair.

? Storyline: