Ireland look to have avoided the toughest side of the draw after the 2027 Rugby World Cup pools were confirmed, but Andy Farrell’s men will still have to navigate a tricky knockout route if they are to lift the Webb Ellis Cup for the first time.
The expanded 24-team tournament introduces a Round of 16, meaning the champions must now win seven matches instead of six.
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Here’s how we think Ireland’s road to the final could unfold.
Pool stage
Portugal
Ireland should open their campaign with a comfortable victory over Portugal, who are making consecutive Rugby World Cup appearances after impressing in France four years earlier.
Prediction: Ireland win by 30+ points.
Scotland
This is likely to decide top spot in Pool D. Scotland have caused Ireland problems in recent years, but Farrell’s side have generally had the upper hand in major tournaments.
Prediction: Ireland win.
Uruguay
Los Teros continue to improve on the world stage, but Ireland should have far too much quality and depth.
Prediction: Ireland win.
Predicted Pool D standings
Ireland
Scotland
Uruguay
Portugal
Round of 16: Ireland vs Georgia
As Pool D winners, Ireland will face one of the tournament’s four best third-placed teams. Based on the current pools, Georgia look the most likely opponent after finishing behind South Africa and Italy in Pool B.
Georgia’s physical pack would ask questions at scrum time, but Ireland’s attacking game should prove too much.
Prediction: Ireland beat Georgia.
Quarter-final: Ireland vs Argentina
If the favourites progress, Ireland would then face Pool C winners Argentina, who are expected to top a group containing Fiji, Spain and Canada.
It would be one of the most entertaining quarter-finals of the tournament, with Los Pumas’ power and flair providing a huge test.
Prediction: Ireland edge Argentina.
Semi-final: Ireland vs England
Our projected winners on the other side of Ireland’s half of the draw are England, who look well placed to emerge from Pool F before building momentum through the knockout stages.
An Ireland-England World Cup semi-final would undoubtedly be one of the biggest matches in Six Nations history.
Prediction: Ireland beat England.
Final: Ireland vs South Africa
The opposite half of the draw appears stacked, with South Africa, New Zealand and France all potential contenders.
We believe the Springboks will once again emerge from that side of the bracket to set up a repeat of one of rugby’s greatest modern rivalries.
Prediction: Ireland vs South Africa in the 2027 Rugby World Cup final.
Our predicted route
Pool: Portugal
Pool: Scotland
Pool: Uruguay
Round of 16: Georgia
Quarter-final: Argentina
Semi-final: England
Final: South Africa
On paper, Ireland have been handed one of the cleaner routes to the latter stages of the tournament. However, with Argentina, England and potentially the world champion Springboks standing in their way, ending the country’s long wait for a first Webb Ellis Cup would still require the greatest run in Irish rugby history.
Quiz: Name these 10 retro rugby players
From jaw-dropping tries to unforgettable moments (and yes, some questionable haircuts), these players defined a golden era of the game. If their names don’t instantly come to mind, we suggest a quick trip to YouTube to jog your memory. Trust us, it’s worth it.
Ready to test your knowledge? Let’s see if you’ve still got it. Good luck!
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