France send statement of intent after defeating New Zealand in opener
France handed a nation the result it craved as they opened their Rugby World Cup campaign on home soil by beating New Zealand 27-13 in Paris.
World Cup Sport News
Lionel Messi magic propels Argentina in 2026 World Cup qualifying
Lionel Messi was at his sublime best again as his second-half goal gave Argentina a 1-0 home win over Ecuador on Thursday to get their 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign off the mark.
Andy Farrell expects Ireland to step up quality in World Cup opener
Head coach Andy Farrell expects Ireland to be “a hell of a lot slicker” in their Rugby World Cup opener following some disjointed warm-up displays.
Ireland’s Rob Herring ‘raring to go’ ahead of overdue World Cup debut
Veteran Ireland hooker Rob Herring never doubted his ability to play at a Rugby World Cup as he prepares to make up for past disappointments with an overdue tournament debut.
Returning Johnny Sexton ready to hit ground running in World Cup opener
Captain Johnny Sexton insists there will be “no excuses” if he fails to perform in Ireland’s World Cup opener against Romania as he prepares to make his first competitive appearance in almost six months.
England pick Alex Mitchell at scrum-half for World Cup opener against Argentina
England have taken a step towards igniting their attack by picking Alex Mitchell at scrum-half for their crucial World Cup opener against Argentina in Marseille on Saturday.
Johnny Sexton to make Ireland return in World Cup opener with Romania
Ireland captain Johnny Sexton will make his first competitive appearance in almost six months after being selected to start Saturday’s Rugby World Cup clash with Romania.
If you get inflated, you get deflated – Ireland’s Caelan Doris staying grounded
Ireland back-rower Caelan Doris actively avoids the media hype surrounding him and feels his own high standards are sufficient pressure going into his first World Cup.