RUGBY WORLD CUP 2023

POOL C

WALES

They have participated in 44 tournaments, winning 26, losing 18, and drawing none. Accumulated 1,238 points for and conceded 865 points against, with a win ratio of 59%. Alun Wyn Jones holds the record for the most RWC appearances with 21. Shane Williams stands as the top RWC try-scorer for Wales with 10 tries. Their best finish came in 1987 when they secured the third place.

Wales qualified for RWC 2023 based on their semi-final performance in the 2019 edition.

A remarkable match etched in memory is New Zealand’s 57–33 victory over Wales in RWC 2003. A historic moment occurred during the inaugural RWC in 1987 when Paul Thorburn’s touchline kick secured Wales the bronze medal against Australia. Adrian Hadley’s try brought them close, but Thorburn’s nerveless kick sealed the victory. Shockingly, Wales suffered losses to Western Samoa in 1991 and 1999, and later to Fiji in RWC 2007. Shane Williams emerges as an iconic player for Wales. While Gareth Thomas debuted with a hat trick in 1995, Williams outscored him overall. Across three Rugby World Cups, Williams’ agile play as a winger led to 10 tries and numerous try assists. Josh Adams created history in RWC 2019 as the first Welshman to be the top try-scorer, with seven tries in as many games. In the run-up to the bronze final against Australia in RWC 2011, Wales conceded only five tries and 56 points in six matches.

Wales’ Rugby World Cup journey has been marked by thrilling highs, heart-wrenching lows, and a consistent pursuit of the ultimate prize. While they have yet to clinch the championship, their legacy as a competitive force on the international rugby stage remains indelible.

AUSTRALIA

Australia holds a special place in the annals of the Rugby World Cup, having won the coveted Webb Ellis Cup twice, in 1991 and 1999. Over the 33-year history of the tournament, the Australian rugby team has experienced moments of triumph and heartbreak that have left an indelible mark on the sport’s biggest stage. Australia’s Rugby World Cup journey began on May 23, 1987, in a match against England at Concord Oval, Sydney. Since then, they have participated in 53 matches, securing victory in 42, without any draws, and facing defeat in 11 encounters. Their formidable record is underlined by a points-for tally of 1,797 against 754 points conceded, resulting in an impressive win percentage of 79%. Most RWC Appearances: George Gregan holds the record for the most Rugby World Cup appearances, with an astonishing 20 outings from 1995 to 2007.

Following a quarter-final exit at the 2019 Rugby World Cup, Australia is gearing up to reassert their prowess in the upcoming tournament.

The inaugural 1987 Rugby World Cup saw Australia engaged in a mesmerizing semi-final against France. Though it ended in defeat, the match is fondly remembered for its intensity and drama, including Serge Blanco’s sensational dive that secured victory for France. Australia’s comprehensive 35–12 triumph over France in the 1999 final stands as the largest margin of victory in a Rugby World Cup final. This win was marked by stellar performances, including tries from Ben Tune and Owen Finegan, and Matt Burke’s accurate boot. Australia’s journey at the Rugby World Cup is a tapestry woven with triumphs, heartbreaks, iconic players, and unforgettable moments. With a legacy of success and resilience, the Wallabies continue to be a force to reckon with on the international rugby stage.

FIJI

Fiji’s Rugby World Cup history is a story of remarkable resilience, attacking prowess, and unforgettable moments. Despite having reached the knockout stages only twice, Fiji’s presence on the global rugby stage has been nothing short of electrifying. With an inclination to attack from deep positions and keep the ball alive, Fiji has provided some of the tournament’s most exhilarating highlights, etching their name in World Cup folklore. Fiji embarked on their Rugby World Cup journey on May 24, 1987, facing off against Argentina at Rugby Park, Hamilton. Over the years, they have participated in 32 matches, winning 11 and losing 21, amassing 732 points for and conceding 971 points against. This effort translates to a win ratio of 34 percent. Notably, Nicky Little boasts the most RWC appearances, having played in 14 tournaments, while Vereniki Goneva holds the record for the most RWC tries with 5.

Their qualification for RWC 2023 was secured through a third-place finish in Pool D during RWC 2019.

One of Fiji’s most unforgettable matches occurred during France 2007, when they triumphed over Wales 38–34 in Nantes. Despite Wales’ Martyn Williams’ 73rd-minute try seemingly sealing victory, an unexpected hero emerged in the form of prop Graham Dewes, who powered over for his first and only test try, propelling Fiji into the quarter-finals. Vereniki Goneva emerged as Fiji’s record try scorer at Rugby World Cups, notching his fifth tournament try in the RWC 2015 encounter against Wales. Impressively, all four of his previous tries had come in a single match against Namibia during RWC 2011. Although he couldn’t add to his tally in Japan, Goneva remains Fiji’s leading try “finisher” in World Cup history. Fiji’s rugby achievements extend beyond the 15-a-side format. They secured victory in the Rugby World Cup Sevens twice, claiming the Melrose Cup in 1997 and 2005.

In conclusion, Fiji’s Rugby World Cup journey encapsulates a blend of perseverance, stunning moments, and significant accomplishments. Despite their limited knockout stage appearances, Fiji’s vibrant rugby spirit has left an indelible mark on the tournament’s history.

GEORGIA

Qualifying for Rugby World Cup 2019 seemed like a precursor to Georgia’s ascent in the rugby world. Their impressive performance at the previous tournament automatically secured their spot, setting high hopes for the future. However, circumstances made their path to Rugby World Cup 2023 in France a bit more challenging. Following their top-three pool finish at the 2015 Rugby World Cup, Georgia’s performance in Japan in 2019 wasn’t replicated. This placed them in a position where they needed to secure one of the European qualifying spots or succeed in the Final Qualification Tournament for their France 2023 participation.

Georgia’s qualification was ultimately sealed off the field, as they were awarded four points for an abandoned match against Russia. This ensured their top-two placement in the qualification table with two rounds of the Rugby Europe Championship 2022 still to be played.

Georgia made their Rugby World Cup debut against England, marking the beginning of their journey on the global stage. With 5 wins and 15 losses in 20 matches, Georgia’s performance in past World Cups showcases its steady growth as a rugby nation. Mamuka Gorgodze’s leadership and performance have been instrumental in Georgia’s rugby journey, particularly during their successful 2015 campaign. Three Georgian players, David Kacharava, Merab Kvirikashvili, and Giorgi Chkhaidze, have achieved the remarkable feat of earning more than 100 caps for their country.

As Georgia prepares for Rugby World Cup 2023, their journey reflects dedication, perseverance, and a deep-rooted passion for rugby. From triumphs to challenges, their story continues to inspire fans and fellow athletes alike.

PORTUGAL

Portugal’s return to the Rugby World Cup stage in 2023 carries a fitting resonance as it comes full circle in France, the same country where their solitary appearance to date took place in 2007. Their journey this time around, marked by resilience and determination, starkly contrasts their previous endeavor. In 2007, Portugal secured their spot in the tournament through a dramatic two-legged contest against Uruguay, prevailing with a narrow 24–23 aggregate scoreline. Fast forward to 2023, and their qualification was sealed with a draw against the USA in the Final Qualification Tournament in Dubai.In the lead-up to the 2023 World Cup, Portugal showcased their growth by securing wins over Spain, the Netherlands, and Russia in 2021. They displayed their potential by holding Georgia to a 25–25 draw. While narrowly missing out on the top two regional qualification spots to Georgia and Romania, Portugal’s third-place standing granted them another chance.

Portugal seized their chance in the Final Qualification Tournament, defeating Hong Kong (42–14) and Kenya (85–0) emphatically. Their qualification was ultimately secured with a 16–16 draw against the USA. This victory earned them a spot in Pool C for the 2023 World Cup alongside Wales, Australia, Fiji, and Georgia.

Portugal’s journey to the Rugby World Cup is one of resilience, growth, and redemption. Their history, marked by both struggles and achievements, has led them back to the global stage, where they seek to make a mark and redefine their legacy.

As the Rugby World Cup 2023 approaches, France eagerly awaits the arrival of rugby fans from around the globe. With a perfect blend of tradition, innovation, and a passion for the sport, this tournament promises to be an unforgettable experience France is all set to deliver a world-class event that will leave a lasting legacy in the history of rugby and we are more than happy to bring you the experience of the games live — come to Ticombo, take a look at our website, and browse through the matches you don’t want to miss. France is calling!

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References

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