- Ireland (World Rank 1) vs. Romania (World Rank 19) in the 2023 Rugby World Cup opener.
- Captain Jonathan Sexton returns for Ireland.
- Changes in Ireland’s backline compared to the warm-up fixture.
- Forward pack changes with Peter O’Mahony, Tadhg Beirne, and Caelen Doris.
- Romania needs physicality to compete against Ireland.
In the opening match of the 2023 Rugby World Cup, Ireland, the world’s number-one-ranked team, is gearing up to face off against Romania, currently ranked nineteenth. This clash is set to take place in a scorching hot Bordeaux, France, as both teams embark on their World Cup campaigns.
Team News
Ireland’s lineup for this crucial encounter showcases a careful blend of first-string players and wider squad members. The return of their captain, Jonathan Sexton, after a suspension following a verbal altercation with a referee during the Champions Cup final, adds considerable experience and leadership to the team.
Notable changes can be observed in the backline, featuring Hugo Keenan, Keith Earls, Garry Ringrose, Bundee Aki, James Lowe, and Jamison Gibson-Park, offering a fresh look compared to their previous warm-up fixture against Samoa.
In the forward pack, the changes continue as Munster duo Peter O’Mahony and Tadhg Beirne join Caelen Doris in the back row. World Player Of The Year Josh van der Flier starts on the bench. The second-row partnership is exciting, with young powerhouse Joe McCarthy joining forces with experienced James Ryan.
The front row consists of Tadhg Furlong and Andrew Porter as props, while Rob Herring gets the nod at hooker.
They have assembled a competitive lineup on the Romanian side, with New Zealand-born center Jason Tomane being a notable inclusion. The playmaking duties will fall on the shoulders of flyhalf Hinckley Vaovasa, partnering with Timișoara Saracens scrumhalf Garbiel Rupanu.
Key Match-Up
For Romania to stand a chance against the formidable Irish team, they must bring a physical edge to the contest, particularly in the pack. Traditionally known for their strength, the Romanian forwards, including players like Hartig, Cojocaru, and Gordas, must work collectively to contain the pace and power of one of the best packs in international rugby, comprising Furlong, Herring, and Porter.
If Romania can disrupt Ireland’s clean ball supply to their backs, they might have a chance of making an impact.
Prediction
The outcome of this clash is heavily skewed in favor of Ireland, with Romania expected to face a daunting challenge. On a historic winning streak, Ireland will likely use this match as a training run to build momentum for their tough pool ahead.
While Romania may initially provide some resistance, the gulf in quality is significant. The prediction leans towards Ireland securing a convincing victory, potentially by a margin of 65 points or more.
Conclusion
This opening match of the 2023 Rugby World Cup sets the stage for what promises to be an exhilarating tournament. Ireland’s formidable lineup and quest to secure the William Webb Ellis trophy make them the clear favorites in this contest against Romania.
The Romanian side, while determined, faces an uphill battle against the world’s top-ranked team. Rugby fans worldwide can anticipate an exciting clash as these two teams kick off their World Cup campaigns in Bordeaux.