Rugby World Cup 2023 – Round One Review

September 13, 2023

1 3 minutes read

Rugby World Cup 2023 – Round One Review

The Rugby World Cup 2023 has begun, and the first whistles have already evoked a chorus of cheers around the globe. The rugby fraternity knew they were in for a treat, but the opening clash far exceeded their wildest expectations.

In the grandeur of the Stade de France, two titans of the sport, France and New Zealand, clashed head-on. The anticipation was palpable, but what no one expected was Mark Telea’s blitz, scoring within the first two minutes. The All Blacks, famed for their Haka and their on-field dominance, looked set for another day of glory. However, the French had a different script in mind. With the roaring crowd behind them, the team in blue displayed a spectacle of passion, strategy, and sheer willpower. Penaud’s significant try, drawing him level with the great Philippe Sella in the record books, highlighted France’s formidable performance. By the final whistle, they’d achieved the unthinkable: ending the All Blacks’ 31 consecutive pool wins with a 27-13 victory. France has thrown down the gauntlet, sending ripples across the rugby world.

While the France-New Zealand faceoff was a masterclass of rugby, Italy and Ireland exhibited sheer dominance in their respective matches. Italy’s resounding 52-8 victory over Namibia wasn’t just a win; it was a statement. The Azzurri have often been considered underdogs in such tournaments, but this performance indicates they’re here with serious quarter-final ambitions. The Irish team, on the other hand, was a force of nature against Romania. Scoring 82 points, with legends like Tadhg Beirne, Peter O’Mahony, Bundee Aki, and Johnny Sexton leading the charge, the team showcased why they’re one of the tournament favorites. Romania, despite the defeat, had its moments to cherish, particularly the game’s opening try that must have felt like a minor victory against the Irish onslaught.

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Australia’s clash with Georgia came as a breath of fresh air for the Wallabies’ fans. Their 35-15 victory was a much-needed respite from a series of defeats they’ve endured lately. The Georgian side, known for their heart and resilience, hoped for a better start, but the Australian resurgence proved too much. Meanwhile, the England-Argentina encounter was a masterclass in strategic rugby. Even with the early setback of Tom Curry’s dismissal, England, under George Ford’s leadership, adopted a pragmatic approach. Ford’s precision, especially his drop goals and penalties, kept the scoreboard ticking, and England emerged victorious with a 27-10 scoreline.

Debutants Chile might have faced a defeat against Japan, but their performance was anything but disappointing. Their spirit on the field and the passion of their fans in the stands left an indelible mark. Japan’s 42-12 win was expected, but the South American side’s tenacity showcased the global growth of rugby.

In another pivotal encounter, South Africa, the reigning champions, showcased why they hold that title. Their tactical brilliance against Scotland was a sight to behold. The game was a tussle, especially in the first half. Still, key plays, including Pieter-Steph du Toit’s and Kurt-Lee Arendse’s tries, set the tone as South Africa sailed to an 18-3 win.

Lastly, the Wales-Fiji match was nothing short of a roller coaster. Just when it seemed Wales had the game in the bag with a 32-14 lead, Fiji, with their never-say-die attitude, launched a comeback. The final moments had fans on the edge of their seats, but Wales managed to hang on, winning 32-26.

As the first round of matches is concluded, the stage is set for even more electrifying encounters. With teams like Uruguay, Tonga, Portugal, and Samoa yet to showcase their prowess, the Rugby World Cup 2023 is shaping up to be a tournament for the ages.