Without kicking a ball, theIreland could well regain her status as queen of world rugby. This weekend, an improbable scenario would see her take the crown. Key to the enigma? The shock South Africa – New Zealand in Johannesburg.
RugbyPass confirms it: an All Black victory by more than 15 points at Ellis Park, and presto! The XV du Trèfle takes back the lead. A 14-month reign, brutally interrupted in the quarter-finals of the 2023 World Cup… And here is Ireland dreaming of a return to the top through the back door.
When the All Blacks play kingmakers
Far-fetched, this scenario? Not so much. In August 2022, the Kiwis won 35-23 in the South African den. Bis repetita, and the world ranking would turn into a complete shake-up: Ireland 92.12 points, New Zealand 91.32, South Africa 90.50.
The reigning world champions, the Springboks, would fall from the throne. But their fall could make the men in green happy.
World Rugby: The Great Waltz of Nations
Beyond the podium, the entire Top 10 could dance the jig. Imagine: an Australian raid in Buenos Aires (+15 points), and here are the Wallabies who jump from 9th to 7th place!
In the Pacific, the Tonga dream of a historic feat in Apia. A first victory on Samoan soil in the pro era, and they would overtake their neighbors in the standings.
As for the Canadahe is eyeing North American supremacy. To achieve this? Beat the USA at home, a feat that has eluded them since 2013.
International rugby in full transformation
Volatility, uncertainty, suspense… The World Rugby rankings have never been so unstable. The gaps are closing, each test match becomes crucial.
Ireland, without playing, could win the bet. But beware the awakening of the giants! The autumn promises to be hot for Andy Farrell’s men.
Three years before the next World Cup, the cards have been reshuffled. Who will come out on top? The answer will be in the coming months, on the pitches of the globe.
Marcowith him, you feel every match as if you were in the stands, the tension, the excitement, the joy of the big days. He has this unique way of telling the matches, making you vibrate to the rhythm of the oval ball. Marco is our storyteller, the one who knows how to transform a match into a legend.
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