Rugby World Cup: the results and ranking of each group

For 50 days, France will live to the rhythm of the Rugby World Cup (September 8-October 28) and the exploits of the XV of France. From this Friday, September 8, with the opening match between the Blues and New Zealand, the twenty qualified nations will face each other, first during a group stage, then during an elimination phase. straight from the quarter-finals. Four groups of five teams have been drawn, and the opposing forces are not evenly distributed. Something to add spice to a group stage which will last until October 8. The first two of each pool will qualify for the quarter-finals and the 3rd will already have their ticket for the next World Cup in 2027.

Group A: the Blues and the All Blacks

The shock of the opening match between France and New Zealand should set the tone in this World Cup. Especially since the winner will come out with a certain psychological advantage. But do not worry all the same for the loser, as Uruguay, Namibia and to a lesser degree Italy seem a tone below. Even if they are no longer the little thumbs they used to be, Ange Capuozzo’s teammates will have a hard time qualifying for the quarter-finals for the first time in their history.

Pool B: the two world leaders and an outsider

It’s hard to imagine a more solid group than this one. Between Ireland, the first nation in the world and winner of the last Six Nations Tournament, South Africa, second in the world and which has just crushed New Zealand in a warm-up match, and Scotland, on the rise, it there will be at least one disappointed. Tonga and Romania will no doubt have to make do with crumbs.

Group C: sick teams

The biggest surprise of this Rugby World Cup could well come from this group. Between an aging Wales team and an Australian XV in doubt and swept away by the France team in preparation, the favorites have a lot to worry about. Especially since Fiji and Georgia have long teeth and can nurture great ambitions in view of their recent results. For Portugal, the task promises to be much more delicate.

Pool D: England in danger?

In difficulty with its rugby for several months, England will be expected at the turn during this World Cup. The risk of elimination is however real, with the presence in this pool of Argentina, Japan, quarter-finalists at the last World Cup, and Samoa, reinforced by former All Blacks. For Chile, the rookie of this competition, it will be above all a discovery operation.