Key talking points as Ireland prepare for Rugby World Cup opener against Romania
Ireland launch their Rugby World Cup campaign against Pool B minnows Romania in Bordeaux.
World Cup Sport News
James Ryan urges Ireland to begin Rugby World Cup with ‘real intent’
Vice-captain James Ryan insists Ireland must begin the Rugby World Cup with “real intent” if they have genuine aspirations of being crowned champions.
Mike Catt: Ireland wing Mack Hansen’s dropping not due to disciplinary matter
Assistant coach Mike Catt categorically denied Mack Hansen’s shock omission for Ireland’s Rugby World Cup opener against Romania is down to an internal disciplinary issue.
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.
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.