Rugby World Cup 2023: Guardian writers’ predictions

South Africa is eyeing their next championship, France is hoping to leverage their home ground advantage, and Fiji might just disrupt the predictions.

What are you anticipating? Robert Kitson: Rugby’s finest moment on the global stage. While it has its flaws, it remains one of the world’s most captivating team sports. If France, Fiji, and Finn Russell deliver standout performances, the event could be unforgettable.

Ugo Monye: I view rugby as a global community. Witnessing the entire rugby world, its players and fans, congregating in France for one of the most iconic sports events excites me.

Andy Bull: It will be intriguing to see how France copes with the pressures of hosting. If they manage, their victory might rekindle everyone’s passion for the game.

Nick Evans: The unpredictability of the group stages. The pools are packed with top-tier teams, and I believe at least one or two big names might not reach the quarter-finals.

Gerard Meagher: I’m eager for the pool matches where the winner isn’t clear-cut. The evolving prowess of second-tier nations and the unpredictable draws ensure more surprises before the knockouts.

Luke McLaughlin: A spectacular performance by France in their home tournament. While a victory might not surpass the fervor of the 1998 football World Cup, captain Antoine Dupont could become a national sensation.

Michael Aylwin: Just the pure essence of rugby. Don’t be misled by nostalgia; today’s rugby is enthralling. I’m particularly excited about the Pacific island teams.

Which pool game is crucial? RK: South Africa vs. Ireland is pivotal. An early clash of two top teams guarantees drama. England vs. Argentina and Wales vs. Fiji are also crucial.

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UM: I’m highlighting two – France vs. New Zealand and South Africa vs. Ireland. Both have the potential to set the tone for the final showdown.

AB: If South Africa secures one of the two qualifying spots in Pool B, then Ireland vs. Scotland will essentially become a knockout game.

NE, GM, LM, MA: A blend of opinions point towards key matches in Pool B, involving top-five teams, with potential surprises from teams like Tonga and Scotland.

Who or what might be the game-changer? RK: The Pacific island teams, especially Fiji and Samoa, have the potential to stir the pot. It wouldn’t be shocking if Fiji advances to the quarters.

UM & AB: Fiji stands out. They rank among the top tier-two nations, and given their world ranking, they could bring significant upsets.

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Mai Linh Pham

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