The 2023 Rugby World Cup is right around the corner. The tournament kicks off with an exciting match as France, the host nation, goes head-to-head against New Zealand in Pool A on September 8.
While the All Blacks are considered top contenders, multiple teams have a legitimate shot at claiming the ultimate prize in the sport. The defending champions, South Africa, commence their title defense against Scotland on September 10, and on September 9, England is set to take on Argentina. You don’t want to miss any of the action!
When and Where is the 2023 Rugby World Cup?
The world’s top rugby teams battle for the sport’s top prize at the 2023 Rugby World Cup runs from Friday, September 8th to Saturday, October 28th. Games will be played all across France. Stade de France in Paris is the host site for both the opening game and the final.
Rugby World Cup 2023 Groups
Four pools of five teams each are competing to secure a position in the quarter-finals.
Pool A
- New Zealand
- France
- Italy
- Uruguay
- Namibia
The competition kicks off with a colossal match as host nation France faces New Zealand.
Within the group, Italy, Uruguay, and Namibia are looking to be the spoilers and stop the two favorites from advancing.
Pool B
- South Africa
- Ireland
- Scotland
- Tonga
- Romania
In Pool B, you have the current title-holders, South Africa, who secured victory by defeating England 32-12 in the final of the 2019 World Cup. However, they now have a huge challenge as they go up against the top-ranked team in the world, Ireland. Completing the pool are Scotland, Tonga, and Romania.
Pool C
- Wales
- Australia
- Fiji
- Georgia
- Portugal
Taking the lead in Pool C is Australia, occupying the eighth spot in the global rankings. Their fellow group-stage contenders include Wales, Fiji, Georgia, and Portugal. Notably, Portugal is making its second appearance in the Rugby World Cup.
Pool D
- England
- Japan
- Argentina
- Samoa
- Chile
In Pool D, there’s Japan, Argentina, Samoa, and Chile. However, the spotlight is on an England squad grappling with injuries. The latest worry for England manager Steve Borthwick is Kyle Sinckler’s injury, which adds to an already extensive list that includes Anthony Watson and Elliot Daly.
Who Are the Favorites for the 2023 Rugby World Cup?
The leading contenders for the 2023 Rugby World Cup title are expected to include traditional rugby powerhouses like New Zealand, South Africa, England, and France. These teams have a history of strong performances in previous World Cups and boast talented squads.
However, predicting favorites can be tough to do. No matter how good a team is, injuries and other surprises can derail even the sport’s best. Considering some of the recent news of injuries, nothing is certain until it all plays out on the field.
How Can I Watch the 2023 Rugby World Cup?
Fans in the United States can watch the 2023 Rugby World Cup on NBC Sports. While you can of course, stay home and watch- like all sports, rugby is better with friends.
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