N°1 Rugby Team in the World

Experience the incredible rise of Ireland Rugby, currently the best rugby team in the world, with this exhilarating video compilation of their most outstanding moments from the past year and beyond. Having just claimed victory in the Six Nations, they have made history as the first Number 1 team in the world to win the prestigious tournament.
Relive their triumphant win against England on Irish soil, complete with the unforgettable and controversial referee decision that led to Freddie Steward's red card. With their sights set on the upcoming World Cup in France, Ireland Rugby has proven themselves as serious contenders for the title.
Will they continue their winning streak and bring home the ultimate prize? Watch this thrilling video and witness the unstoppable power of Ireland Rugby!
#irelandrugby #sixnations #rugbyhighlights

[@markcasey1143]

These guys have no idea how proud the make to be Irish, not just the team that played ,the whole squad,management and players. They are all a credit to us. Well done ❤😂❤😂.

[@geroutathat]

Bit sad if you need this to be proud to be Irish.

[@rudidedog243]

@@geroutathat better than what the soccer boys do for us

[@geroutathat]

@@rudidedog243 soccer is like the 4th or 5th most popular sport in Ireland. The soccer team does Ireland proud, and their fans do us even prouder. Im not into soccer but the Irish rugby fans do not hold a candle to the Irish soccer fans, this is simple facts. But if disparaging other people brings you joy, then i shall bring some joy. So sit down. Terrenure and blackrock were both molesting and raping children, and both refuse to steroid test the kids. When the scandals broke eu mps who attended the schools and journalists both said everyone knew. Rugby parents drop their 14 year old daughters to wesley disco, where they have sex with the 16 year old boys (how many girls have had to be flown to england in the past after going to wesley, so much that the main girls school who attends the disco is called 'pill on the hill' for 30 years at least. So they send their daughters to be statutory rapes, they send their boys to be molested and raped, and they turn a blind eye to any drug uses. Does that sum up the state of rugby fans in Ireland? And all of that is okay as long as they win and that is all that matters and thats what makes you proud, and soccer does not make you proud because although the fans are the best in the world they dont win, and that embarrasses you?

[@one_eyed_odin]

​@geroutathat the state of the country outside of rugby, trust me, nothing to be proud of.

[@geroutathat]

@@one_eyed_odin just been conditioned by media to see pride in success, large houses, freshly tarmaced roads, designer clothes, a range rover... Id say dublin is nothing more than a run down shopping mall and outside is much better. But im a dub who has grown tired of how soulless dublin has become. Im still proud to be Irish though. I wouldn't swap it to be african or asian etc.

[@christopherbyrne18]

What a privilege to see such a well organised & talented Irish team with a depth I've never seen. Regardless of the world cup Andy Farrell has transformed Irish Rugby

[@declantarpey6642]

Agree with your first sentence. This will be a distant fading memory if we don't do a whole lot better in the World Cup.

[@silversolver7809]

@@declantarpey6642 Not among genuine supporters Declan, only among fine-weather fans. Why, some of us supporters can still recall the superb 2018 year!

[@hugostiglitz6914]

Andy Farrell has done well but this has been a decade in the making. The strength and dept starts with the school system. There's 3 players of almost equal quality for every position.

[@RazorMouth]

It started long before Andy Farrell, hes just taken it to another level.

[@johnmc3862]

@@RazorMouthSure, but I wouldn’t underestimate’ just another level’. Ireland were already serious team before Farrell got hold of them.

[@dude9318]

As a South African of course I would want my country to win But if Ireland wins I would not be sad Ireland really deserves to win

[@bmac3452]

I’m a kiwi and Ireland are unreal at the moment. Can’t wait for September

[@Garanon5]

As a rugby casual fan, I love the All Blacks and NZ. That said, I'm very happy to see another country getting to shine and dominate. It makes the whole sport much more competitive and interesting.

[@waynewright5571]

I'm a kiwi and totally agree with your comment. This W/Cup is going to be a pearler.😊

[@guillermodolan5131]

This is not rugby.....its MAGIC

[@kippsguitar6539]

They got lucky against England against 13men, that won't keep happening in the world cup

[@keltiquewood]

@@kippsguitar6539 Luck is about 1% kiddo unlike your 99% idiocy ;-)

[@itisconor7338]

@@kippsguitar6539 we were winnign before they went off any way plus they were dirty asf so they deserved to go off

[@numanoid5665]

​@@kippsguitar6539 lucky ? Are you having a laugh. They were never going to beat Ireland in Dublin on the 18 th March 😂 Thuggery rugby is what Borthwick brought, just like when he played. Best of luck, England are fucked. What a comment......lucky 😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@AlainnCorcaigh]

​@@kippsguitar6539 so what about all the other games

[@joedennehy386]

As a kiwi, well done Ireland, deservedly the No1 Ranked team in the world. Good luck at the world cup, i think you'll be fine if its the Abs, or France in the 1/4 finals. You have beaten both the last time you played them

[@marchantnick]

The best thing is that the under 20s have won the six nations in 3 of the last 5 years, all by grand slam. So fingers crossed we'll have another wave of talented players coming through soon, notably at out half

[@LomuHabana]

By the looks of it, Irish rugby has been completed transformed, so maybe you ARE a new superpower challenging the Bocks and the AB.

[@DM-rp9ik]

They might have had 4/5 under 20 Grand Slams if not for covid. They were 3 wins from 3 in 2020

[@DM-rp9ik]

​@@LomuHabanaA long way to go but getting better every few years

[@robbiejohnston2023]

Nothing unites Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland like ruling the rugby world as a part of the same cohesive unit

[@robbiejohnston2023]

@@fallschirmjager0000 you can’t do that when most of the north want to remain British. Like myself for example. I wouldn’t mind a United ireland if it was financially a good idea, but it would be a terrible idea in that regard. Why even a large amount of our Catholic population vote unionist, simply for economic reasons

[@christinequinn5355]

@@robbiejohnston2023 32 counties in the geographic island called Ireland. Politically, 6 counties are part of the United Kingdom and 26 counties are part of the Republic - POLITICALLY. In all aspects of daily reality it is one, rather small, green, wet island, which ALL have to inhabit. Rugby is simply the most beautiful, joyous ways of showing all the lads playing for the Island of Ireland. It is also one of the most elegant ways of leaving POLITICS aside, if even just for a sport.

[@robbiejohnston2023]

@@christinequinn5355 exactly, I agree.

[@robbiejohnston2023]

@@ciaranoconnor4027 you aware that Irish tribes attacked British ports long before Britain ever stepped foot on Irish soil? Everyone loves to feel like they’re a victim, the reality is you aren’t anymore so stop living in the past

[@ranica47]

@@robbiejohnston2023 A bit of light piracy is all.

[@lurchlocker89]

Ever since the series win in New Zealand last summer I can't remember a more promising time to be an Irish rugby supporter. Having said that, I can't but also feel uncomfortable with all the "best in the world" and World Cup chatter. We have the toughest path imaginable to a semi final and there's really very little between Ireland and our World Cup opposition. France have home advantage. South Africa could've beaten or at least drawn with us in the Autumn series if they had a proper fly-half like Pollard on the field. And it would be extremely foolhardy to ever underestimate the All Blacks.

[@bighands69]

Ireland will not win the world cup and will probably have a very ordinary competition.

[@aughalough1]

@@bighands69, Ireland is as good as any other side in the world at the moment, but anything can happen on the day of big game.

[@loughrey101]

And South Africa should have beaten France too if not for the double movement try and they only beat Australia by a singular point in Paris. Ireland had a far more convincing Autumn series than France, the same was true foot they're home games in the Six Nations. It demonstrates that France are far more vulnerable in Paris than Ireland are in Dublin.

[@taintabird23]

Jesus Martin, is it not obvious from all the SH comments that they are worried about us? They're either taking credit for our success, telling us that we only won low standard games to get to the top of the World Rankings or telling us that because we performed poorly in the past we perform poorly again. They are reassuring themselves that Ireland are not a threat. France will probably win the RWC, assuming they turn up, and there is a good chance that neither NZ or SA will reach the SF stage. They know that and it makes them uncomfortable. It is easier to tell Paddy that he will crash and burn in the QF than it is to face the alternative. Rugby is a game of small margins, you can be slightly off and lose by 30 points. We have been better at managing those margins over the last year and there is no reason to assume we won't continue to do so. We have as good a chance as any especially as we will not underestimate the opposition. It is not in our nature.

[@aengusk]

@@bighands69 who will win it?

[@backpackingireland8624]

Outstanding, from coaching, back room guys to a squad that we’ve never seen on these shores . Strength in depth, that’s where it matters most. Went into the last WC at No1 . Going into this one as a serious Contender. The way the guys spoke after winning a 6Nations Grandslam , the focus is on the WC , make no mistake, Ireland are the team to fear . 🇮🇪🇮🇪🇮🇪

[@richardmatatahi4563]

We don't fear Ireland, but no team can take them likely, that will be foolhardy, and I could say the same for South Africa, France & Scotland. speaking as an All Black supporter. Don't be too fearless, may come crashing down, around you. Fear losing.

[@johnmc3862]

@@richardmatatahi4563A figure a speech lad!

[@richardmatatahi4563]

7 months ago@@johnmc3862 before the RWC started, certainly sounded like just being plain cocky to me. Before the event even started. In answer to "Make no mistake, Ireland are the team to fear" no figure of speech there.

[@stuartie4065]

The amount of top notch passes from Hansen is seriously impressive

[@jimbob542]

Agreed, that's a sure sign of the excellence of Australian running rugby.

[@stuartie4065]

@@jimbob542 Haha, yeah. Australia's loss is definitely Ireland's gain.

[@snug1117]

Legends Andy Farrell has brought Ireland to the top and genuinely favourites for world cup

[@vanilliza]

The maddest fact is that Rugby is just the 4th sport in Ireland!

[@bernieob9577]

It's.number 1 for me ❤

[@michaelbourbon8815]

That's why they have to import foreigners for a few years to get a passport. You are NOT an Irish team btw.

[@bernieob9577]

You have to be English

[@thomas6127]

@@michaelbourbon8815 lol. Cry even more

[@ad-kg5dp]

@@michaelbourbon8815 Actually we are. Most have some sort of Irish family or grand parent. 10 Players in total were born somewhere else. Almost all have Irish family . 3 are through the residence rule i think . Scotland actually have the most in the northern hemisphere but again many are Scottish by decent. 22 players.

[@alanmckeown]

So proud of these men and grateful for the sheer privilege and pleasure it is to watch them at work. Bring on the World Cup! ☘️

[@dubcindub15]

I thought when BOD, POC, and ROG all retired that Irish rugby would be on the downturn after losing such talent, boy am I so happy to be proven wrong! This team is Prozac for the Irish soul 💚💚💚

[@pr3nd0]

We have even better talent coming through with the u-20s having completed back to back grand slams. The youth knocking on Farrell’s door is going to give him 1 major headache which is great for us

[@ryangriffin5795]

Oh my god I'm so proud to be Irish 🇮🇪

[@owhyte1]

Open, risky and confident rugby. A pleasure to watch. This group is good enough to win the World Cup

[@CRAiCED.]

We have a bloody hard road to a world cup victory but it can done. If anyone can do it it's these boys

[@kippsguitar6539]

It can but highly unlikely with a shallow squad and that's always the difference in world cups, they got away with murder against England with an incompetent referee

[@filthymutt6029]

​​@@kippsguitar6539 Is it always the difference? I can't even think of 5 players that England and South Africa were absent of for the world cup final. Same goes for NZ and Australia in the 2015 final. The fact of the matter is that any team is very unlikely to be without more than a third of their best 23, and Ireland have already proven they can beat top sides despite losing that many players.

[@BrendenEngelbrecht]

If Ireland wins, NZ, AUS and South Africa win too. Not bad, I guess.

[@nathanp123]

​@@BrendenEngelbrecht 🥱 keep talking

[@KickingTeeRugby]

@@filthymutt6029against SA were missing first choice kicker and had bad referee decisions Against Aus could barely beat them even with bad calls Against England could barely win with 2 extra men and interesting referees All of these were home games Ireland is definitely a force but they won’t win the WC

[@gavincourtney3162]

Irish rugby is in a very very very good place at the moment. Andy Farrell has brought us to heights we only could dream of. Let's not get ahead of ourselves, we have an extremely tough group in WC and firstly let's get out of that and then anything is possible. Scotland and South Africa are well capable of causing us heartbreak, but for the first time ever, I feel we have a chance of world cup glory. I feel FRANCE could be our biggest threat of glory

[@ggmm6182]

yes that's true but world cup is different historically Ireland have flopped in every world cup, I personally think Ireland will finish 2nd in there group behind South Africa and will play France in the quarter finals Regardless ireland and south africa will play France and New Zealand in the quarter finals which means 2 of them will be gone by the quarter finals Scotland are also in South Africa and Ireland's group don't count them out causing an upset in the group in a one off game on that side of the draw I would fancy France to go all the way based on home advance, On the other side of the draw you have England, Argentina, Wales and Australia, In my opinion I think it will be England, Australia or France at that stage of the tournament who will go all the way based on the draw, it's the semi final stage where it's anybody's tournament to win As an Irishman I hope I'm wrong but can't see Ireland getting past the quarter finals unfortunately

[@FaQPloxZoR]

As a South African, im terrified that this year might be the first time we dont make it out of the group stage. Both Scotland and Ireland look really good, and this is definitely the group of death in the 2023 WC. Good luck to you guys, its going to be a massive struggle from all teams

[@Cpchurch87]

@@FaQPloxZoRit’s set up to be a crazy group. I might be wrong, but I’ve a feeling Scotland will target the SA game. I think everyone will expect them to target Ireland given the history between them, but they may spring something out and I think their style of play could cause SA (actually most teams) problems if it clicks. Crazy that we lose the strongest sides to one side of the draw though! Best of luck,

[@bighands69]

Irish Rugby has been there before and will flop at the world cup. Ireland are getting excited because they look good at times and because the six nations was very weak in 2023.

[@ggmm6182]

@@bighands69 as an Irishman I agree to a certain extent if you look at my earlier comment I believe Ireland will only make it to the quarter final based on the tough games they have to play early in the tournament, But I don't believe the 6 nations was weak this year, Ireland are excited because they beat New Zealand in New Zealand over a 3 game test series that is an outstanding achievement that very few countries have done, they have also beaten South Africa, Australia and France in the last 12 months so they have every right to feel confident going into the world cup as they are rightfully the most inform team in the world right now and should not fear any team as they have beaten every top team in the world over the last 12 months

[@tsmeman63]

Thank you for this video. ☺️ I just bought a ticket for the Ireland v England match on 19 August. Can’t wait to see them win again! I’ve got high hopes for our boys in green ☘️ to win the World Cup this year! 🇮🇪😘🏉💚🤍🧡 And our future looks bright with also our U20 Grand Slam win! 🏆👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻

[@johngarveyire]

Thanks for the video, so happy for the players and coaches, and we see Andy, but Paulie hides a bit, Thanks big man! You are first legend!

[@taraann7753]

Out of this world..this lifts the heart with joy and pride.💚 🤍 🧡☘️☘️☘️☘️.☘️☘️

[@maureenmccarthy4204]

I love this team they make me feel so proud they have been amazing so far in this world cup

[@johnmccann8319]

Amazing Rugby!Amazing teamwork!Amazing IRISH TEAM!!!❤

[@christophebonhoefferofbelg9846]

Ireland have been fantastic & congratulations on winning the Grand Slam. I’d dearly love to see Ireland win the World Cup & they’ve got a real chance with this team, but I feel like the French have a big advantage in their own back yard & of course you’d never write off NZ or SA. Looking forward to it.

[@eatmyshamrock]

For context, BOD talking about Ireland's defence at the beginning was in reference to the fact that Ireland were going into the final weekend of the 6N having only conceded 5 tries while France had conceded 10. In the end, Ireland conceded 6 tries in 5 games, while Scotland conceded 12 and France conceded 14. Ireland conceded 72 points in the 5 games while France conceded 115. There's a lot of talk about Shawn Edwards, at least on English commentary, but for now it does look like it's between Ireland and the Boks for the best defences in the world.

[@bighands69]

Ireland will not win the world cup. Ireland did well in six nations because England and Wales were dreadful. France was average and Scotland look good but are not really effective. Irelands line out was very poor and will get exploited Ireland does far too much pointless kicking which will also get exploited in the World cup.

[@taintabird23]

@@bighands69 Ireland could win the RWC. If you believed otherwise you wouldn't bother commenting.

[@imrugbymad]

@@bighands69 Ireland have the best all around game at the moment. Know their structures well and are definitely the most clinical at the moment. Will be one of the teams in the running for the World Cup. From a bok fan

[@aengusk]

@@bighands69 who will win the world cup?

[@aengusk]

@@imrugbymad Gracious

[@redneckReno]

great video!! loved the.....BOOM ....with fuzzy vibrational effects!! Music Awesome!! Subject unparalleled!!

[@RugbyEverest]

Glad you enjoyed it !

[@JustinMurray170fin]

Loved the editing to the score - great work, kudos❣

[@RugbyEverest]

Glad you liked it ! Thanks for the praise, appreciate it !

[@splah01]

I remember Irish rugby in the '90's, sometimes I've to pinch myself to believe where we are now. We should enjoy this phase of brilliance while it lasts. But then you look at the u20's and you've to pinch yourself again that we could be here for a while !

[@taintabird23]

We've got good structures in place, we've just got to believe in ourselves now. I remember those bad years of the 1990s, which included plenty of defeats to tier 2 nations. For me, things changed when O'Driscoll burst on to the scene with that hat-trick in Paris. Since then Ireland have won 42 Six nations games, 3 more than Wales and 6 more than France and only two behind England.

[@RazorMouth]

A lot of the credit has to go to the IRFU to be fair. This was all planned but the Irish teams have surpassed what they hoped for..... so far

[@etiennecomperat9838]

fr cutting Lowe's foot from the screen at 4:53 is editing at its finest (just kidding, amazing team and great video thx a lot)

[@GoldenbanjoDJ]

This is a very well-put-together video

[@bighands69]

It is just not realistic though.

[@GoldenbanjoDJ]

@@bighands69 what do you mean? It's literal footage of Ireland beating every team they've faced. You've watched real life, recorded game play where this happened, not a figment of anyone's imagination. This is entirely realistic

[@daily_word6437]

This World Cup will be the best yet in my opinion so many highly competitive teams with both SA and the battle hardened Scott’s in the same pool Ireland will need to step up another level whatever that may be to make it to the quarters! Best of luck from NZ 🇳🇿🇮🇪

[@yootoooob]

Great content .. great rugby

[@MegaCoKO]

what a lovely bunch of lads

[@RugbyEverest]

What are your thoughts on this Six Nations Championship ?

[@melaniamonicacraciun9900]

Happy weekend of love for rugby guys, wishing you bring rugby partnerships in further 190 countries world wide, it's obvious that you need more than six nations as enemies to fight against, for the next Olympic games of rugby...from my behalf, every single school on this planet if possible, let them young people give it a try, let them visit Irish for the next rugby happening, let's dream forward that this video might help, fans are dreaming forward indeed

[@paulsteven-mj1vu]

Some people forget Joe Smith started dis a few years back but the kicking game never suited,Farrell was the making of us,and again a lot of people don't realise what a difference Paul o Connoll has made since Farrell took him in to the coaching staff,we are the best out there and honestly if we can get past the quarter final to me it's a win either way 💪💪💪

[@almcdonald8676]

Absolutely class

[@GregSmithPhD]

Don't forget they won the under-20 Six Nations, too.

[@imnotavingthat6813]

Best team on the planet by some distance too, im a proud Englishman, with irish heritage, so might switch allegiance 😂😂😂

[@youtuber2021]

We're No.1 in 6 Nations and will do just as well in September in the World Cup. Regardless of whatever bitterness comes from other countries. Tar Ar Do Bhuachaillí I Glas 🇮🇪🇮🇪🏆😁

[@ranica47]

i nGlas?

[@youtuber2021]

@@ranica47 it means green in Irish

[@bighands69]

@@youtuber2021 You can live in a fantasy as Ireland fans have done before.

[@loughrey101]

Number one in the world, not just the Six Nations

[@Luka_WiFi]

ეკუთვნით! They've DESERVED one world cup, or final (at least)

[@cmair77]

World cup is gonna be fun, Ireland's looking real good, specially after 6 nations.

[@alanflood2219]

Theses new breed of Irish players have No fear playing the all blacks , the series win was a game changer

[@Just_JasonZA]

Ireland now the target of the world. Hope they play well in the WC, If the Southern Web Ellis Cup should go to the North I will be pleased if it was Ireland. Just don't think the North are very good at keeping their gameplay secret and think all the southern teams have figured out how to unlock them..

[@hawkeire2414]

Ireland learnt to play without fear, They are relaxed, they don't force the play they let it come to them. I expect them to do very well. If Ireland get out of the quarters with zero injury then its game on for the WC

[@csv9454]

We never had fear, just lacked the skill and squad to proceed. I think these other nations forget this is our 4th most played sport. Behind Gaelic football hurling and soccer. Just know that.

[@cushyglen4264]

It’s only a game played with a weird ball, but these men have shown what can be achieved with self-belief & passion.

[@karlosdeevs]

it's not weird, it's just an oddly-shaped oval

[@RugbyEverest]

Do you think that Ireland will have what it takes to win the World Cup in France at the end of this year ?

[@hansim5155]

you have to beat the best to become the best ,bring it on says Andy Farrel ,and i agree as an lreland fan👊

[@kenrehill8775]

No, out at the quarters. They were made to look very different for 30 minutes on Saturday. There’s no guarantee that they’d have won without that red card, and certainly even less if Ryan had been correctly carded. They’ve got the toughest route to the final, if they do it the. They are without the doubt the best team, but I have serious doubts.

[@toffee1889]

France, sadly

[@decmurray1096]

It's too far out to tell, but I think the Irish boys have shown the cracks in this French side. Ireland have been awesome defensively, only conceding 6 tries in the 5 games, usually just one in a game. That's a scary prospect for any team. I honestly think the French have a lot more question marks in their team. Italy, Wales and Scotland gave them more trouble than they gave Ireland, although the English were obviously far improved against Ireland. Still a bonus point win, keeping Irelands average above 4 tries per game. Ireland are deserved winners. One of the greatest 6N teams I think we've ever seen. WC a long way away, but it's shaping up to be a cracker. I think if Ireland manage to top the group of death, they'll have a good chance of winning it. But that's a big if.

[@tremolony4924]

@@decmurray1096 Ireland have never made it past the RWC Quarterfinals... Lets not get too ahead of ourselves 😅

[@putinsgaytwin4272]

I've only watched the world Cup in 2015 and 2019. I think the issues both times were that when players get injured, we didn't have backups that believed they could win. I think our team is much deeper this time round. New Zealand is falling from their once obvious overarching dominance. Australia also. South Africa and France looking good. Despite our rankings, the players are kinda new and aren't super psychologically prepared for the RWC. I think we'll top our group and lose to France or New Zealand

[@jadenphilander8799]

As a South African I feel that the spruigboks under Rassie is so unpredictable...tactics were different every game last year. This year the squad is even better than they were the last time before they won the world cup...wont be suprised if we were to win it...when our rugby was at our lowest in history.. Rassie still managed to turn us into world champions... And now he is even in a better position to win but I also wont be suprised if Ireland make it at least past the quarters..or even to the final... Dont make the mistake and of writing off the All Blacks.

[@filthymutt6029]

Nah, the starting side was the main problem in 2019. Ireland's spine was terrible. Best and Kearney were well past their best, Murray and Sexton were in dreadful form all season, and Stander was one-dimensional. This year, every player in the spine is at least top 3 in the world for their position. Also, a few of the better forwards looked tired/lazy, which is probably because the team didn't time their run correctly.

[@ggmm6182]

​@@filthymutt6029 yes that's true but world cup is different historically Ireland have flopped in every world cup, I personally think Ireland will finish 2nd in there group behind South Africa and will play France in the quarter finals Regardless ireland and south africa will play France and New Zealand in the quarter finals which means 2 of them will be gone by the quarter finals Scotland are also in South Africa and Ireland's group don't count them out causing an upset in the group in a one off game on that side of the draw I would fancy France to go all the way based on home advance, On the other side of the draw you have England, Argentina, Wales and Australia, In my opinion I think it will be England, Australia or France at that stage of the tournament who will go all the way based on the draw, it's the semi final stage where it's anybody's tournament to win As an Irishman I hope I'm wrong but can't see Ireland getting past the quarter finals unfortunately

[@paddywigglesworth7652]

Proud as. Considering this sport is classed as the 4th sport in Ireland, says it all really.

[@ghes9141]

yeah but the other countries have other sports too. look at ireland's performance at the olympics. 4 medals in 2020. australia with 46, france with 33, UK with 64, NZ with 17. Dont get me wrong, Ireland are doing exceptionally well in rugby, no argument, just an interesting insight. and im irish!!

[@sumboi2321]

Calling it now! Irish players are the new trending imported players. Much like Saffers and Kiwis, nations will look to cap Irish players that don’t make it into the national team

[@ghes9141]

I wouldnt be so sure of that, apart from John Ryan. Look at the 3 in Ireland's back line, Aki, Hansen and Lowe, 3 imports!! haha

[@LomuHabana]

Ireland have an amazing squad and everything, but it is gonna get tough. It’s (most likely) either AB or France in the quarters. The AB are still THE side to beat at the WC (as almost always), and the French have (besides their incredible team) the home advantage with a massive crowd behind them and maximally motivated players. But Ireland is certainly good enough (and favourites) to beat both of them.

[@IcarianX]

I don't think Ireland would be favorites vs NZ, SA or France. But hopefully they will show up this time and keep their nerve. If they do, then they stand as good a chance as anyone vs those teams. But I wouldn't rule out Scotland causing an upset for Ireland or SA in their pool. And whoever makes it out is going to need some real depth (which Ireland have) because SA and Scotland will be very physical matches.

[@LomuHabana]

@@IcarianX In this form, and as nr.1, they aren’t underdogs either. But good point, Scotland gonna be a tough one for both Ireland and the boks, can’t wait for the WC.

[@joedennehy386]

Never write off South Africa

[@LomuHabana]

@@joedennehy386 I don’t, Ireland will face them no earlier than the final after the group stages. SA and Ireland will advance to the K.O stage, that I am quite sure. Scotland is good, but not as good as them.

[@basedsigma5634]

They defnitely on a roll

[@garrica3323]

Is it better; that bringing the best that we've got, together, from local fields, bogs and towns and from far away places where our elders went or were forcibly taken, and being the best by the measuring stick of the world; or putting roots and family second to things that we suffer like economy and politics dictated by countries that never shed a tear for us ? Everyone from everywhere else says, 'the Irish are so welcoming',...let's welcome ourselves more.

[@bernieob9577]

Wow amazing Ireland 🇮🇪

[@garethscott9051]

❤

[@naidoo307]

Let’s see where they are at the end of RWC 2023 hey ?

[@RugbyEverest]

Who was the most impactful player for Ireland in this Six Nations ?

[@pascaleferrat1008]

Sexton

[@johnmc3862]

Hugo Keenan.

[@harryocallaghan8082]

Hugo Keenan

[@decmurray1096]

There are so many top performers in the team that it's difficult to answer, and that's the sign of a great team I'd say. There's been a lot of really great performances, and it was certainly a squad effort, especially against Scotland.

[@kippsguitar6539]

The referee

[@matthewmurphy750]

Unbelievable rugby, time now to go to France and win the big one. Coybig🇮🇪

[@JK-ww8dn]

I really hope we win the world cup to experience that in my lifetime although im only 22 would be something incredible.

[@LomuHabana]

I am sure you’ll experience that with so much of your life still ahead. If not this year, then surely another time soon.

[@TheKgv1]

Just looking back at this resume says to me:- this slam & no 1 position in the world is no fluke...rool on September in France 😊

[@Cpchurch87]

Being Irish, there is always the monkey on our back around the QF in a World Cup. So I’m not getting ahead of myself, however this year feels very different. We won a GS while not actually being at our best. I actually don’t think we played very well in 3 of the 5 games. Italy, England and Scotland we were below par and still came out with 2 BP wins, and double digit margin wins in each of those. 27 out of 28 points, 10 tries conceded in 2022 and 2023 tournament combined, not conceding many penalties, looking visibly fitter than other teams. I know it’s different level at the WC, and we have a very hard draw but someone has to win the thing and I can’t see any reason why we can’t go out and do it. And no, this isn’t “Irish arrogance” we haven’t earned the right to be arrogant, especially at WC. But, from previous years where we peaked, had no squad depth, a game plan that was easy to beat with no plan B, or the days where we had one big win in us and then we were spent this has a different feel. I truly believe this team can beat (and has beaten) anyone on their day so hopefully we have a few of our best days in France.

[@bighands69]

The truth is that Irish rugby is not that good. It shows flashes of play but it will not be enough to win a world cup. It will either be Australia, New Zealand, South Africa or what ever French team shows up. England can also have horrible six nations and then turn it on at a world cup.

[@Cpchurch87]

@kaizen2095 Absolutely. None of us getting ahead of ourselves but if I rate our performances this championship I'd say - Wales 8/10, France 9/10, Italy 6/10, Scotland 6.5/10, England 6/10. Found a way to win each time, and hopefully, more to come. Big ask, but we have as much a chance as anyone else

[@ShiNooBi1986]

I've yet to meet an Irish supporter that is not Humble. Im an ABs fan born and bred. Ireland is the best team in the world and has been for a few years imo. Not playing at your best and winning is a sign of Champions. The World Cup is a different Beast but I think Ireland has it over most teams where it matters most, upstairs. I'm picking a Final of France V Ireland. If Ireland win this team will go down in history as one of the best ever, this period they are in now reminds me of Australia's dominance of the late 90s early 2000s

[@taintabird23]

@@bighands69 The truth is that Irish rugby is that good, and it is good to watch - ask anyone who knows about rugby, not just people from countries who define their national identity by the prowess of their rugby team. The fact is, the NH is slightly ahead of the SH at the present time and this will be much more open RWC than any previous edition and the French will probably win their first title. As for Ireland, if you weren't worried about them, you wouldn't even be commenting here. England have an easy run to the semi-finals, but they have a lot of work to do if they will make it that far.

[@taintabird23]

@@ShiNooBi1986 Thank your for your respectful and reasonable assessment.

[@drac0100]

Ez for Ireland. WRC final IRE vs SA

[@WOLFDHUNTER.]

South Africa are the champions but Ireland is an amazing team

[@zacha-ri9773]

Ireland France I can't wait

[@GGRUGBY]

They can but I believe France has advantage because they are hosts

[@taintabird23]

I'm Irish, and I agree with you.

[@joedennehy386]

Well in 2007 nerves got to them, and they lost the opening match to Argentina

[@taintabird23]

@@joedennehy386My recollection of 2007 was that the first game was against Georgia, which Ireland lucky to win. Ireland were well beaten by Argentina and France after that. The overall conclusion was that Ireland 'were 'undercooked' going into the tournament, as they played no warm up matches in an effort to prevent unnecessary injuries to key players. This strategy reflected the lack of depth in the squad.

[@TheMudwatcher]

but will they get past the quarters at RWC?

[@koketsoncongwane1602]

Hope they can keep up this momentum going into wc , its not gonna be easy with all blacks springboks Australia and France gunning at them🤝🇿🇦

[@bighands69]

I do not think they have momentum. I think they reached their peak in a poor six nations competition. A success for Ireland at the 2023 world cup will be getting to the semi finals and putting up a brave fight and the fans feeling like they almost did it.

[@taintabird23]

Ireland have momentum, which is important in being successful, and are on a ten game winning streak. They simply take every game as it comes and they fear nobody. I've never seen an Irish team play with such confidence and they are quite relaxed, save for some jitters at the start of English game. They have beaten all tier 1 nations in the last 18 months or so and they all know how hard this Irish team is to beat. So while the Irish have their feet firmly on the ground, it is a concern for SA and NZ as with France on the same side of the draw and ranked above them, it is quite possible that neither SA or NZ will reach a SF. That was pretty obvious from Hansen's comments during the week. For the Irish Rugby Football Union, reaching the SF will make it a successful RWC. The players however, seem to be more ambitious.

[@koketsoncongwane1602]

@@taintabird23 rule number 1 never underestimate springboks or all blacks , wc all blacks/springboks are a different breed we all know that. So you think they can maintain the unbeaten streak going into wc? I personally think they are a good team but beatable their only challenge in 6N was france to be honest, i love the confidence that the Irish fans have for a team that has time and time again proven that they are not good when it comes to wc, in your opinion what’s different this time?because looking back they were ranked 1st back in 2019

[@taintabird23]

@@koketsoncongwane1602 The Irish never underestimate anybody, it is not part of our cultural makeup. Every team is beatable. Looking back you wont find an Irish team that was 35 weeks at #1 in the World Rankings, had beaten NZ in NZ in a three test series, and won a 6 Nations with a grand slam prior to any RWC. You won't have found an Irish team with such depth either, or with such an excellent disciplinary record. Last RWC you will have found an Irish team that had been unbeaten in 2018, lost two games in the 6 Nations in 2019 including a record defeat to England (in Dublin) and only went to #1 before the World Cup for two weeks based on wins in the warm up games. Ireland's challenge in the 6 Nations this year came from both France and Scotland. They won their games comfortably without hitting the heights they reached in the first half of the third test in NZ in 2022. Maintaining an unbeaten streak going into the World Cup is not important at this stage, there are no prizes for warm up games. There is no respect for Ireland in the SH. The fact is, NZ, SA, France and Ireland all have an equal opportunity to go out at the Quarter Final stage, but with the exception that Ireland are long overdue reaching the SF.

[@koketsoncongwane1602]

@@taintabird23 i hear you i see you talking about depth , how do you rate Ireland without saxton and josh van der flier , lets say god forbid these two players get injured right before wc how do you think Ireland will perform

[@michaeltougher3501]

Irish men💪🏻

[@jeanmichelreneredbeans4104]

Robotic rugby 🎉

[@joedennehy386]

what a rubbish comment

[@1320613]

We will find out how good they are in the World Cup competition. That’s the one they all want to win.

[@jamesmaher8595]

Ye, now that we're the "ones-to-beat" it's easy to be euphoric but what about the "calm-before-the-storm"? Our great as our rise and improvement has been in the last few years it's easy to forget that our WC record has been increasingly abismal! Will that change next September?

[@Irish780]

We will be world champions I feel it

[@user-wt5kc5bh5o]

Must do it in France

[@loughrey101]

That team are not going to be stopped for the next year at least, but unfortunately for other nations, the WC is only 6 months away

[@redmondpeters6221]

Ok I knew our guys were good but I had no idea they were THIS good. Ireland 🇨🇮 winning the Rugby World Cup? Anything is possible right? All we have to do is wait and see.

[@bighands69]

They are not that good.

[@ShiNooBi1986]

@bighands69 yes they are. I'm an AB fan too btw

[@kildare160]

@@bighands69 ireland are not that good says you...let me correct you......THEY ARE BRILLIANT

[@papachinizo]

Its a weird one, the series in NZ, the Autumn tests and the 6N all happened within 8 months, but now there's a five month gap until the RWC warm up tests - its happened too many times, where Ireland look unplayable the year before a World Cup, only for them to absolutely bomb out in the Group Stage/QF of the RWC; its hard to get excited for it... Another factor are the groups, England and Australia will fall into the Semi-Finals and whoever escapes pool A/B will limp into it...

[@aengusk]

Your key phrase is "the year before..." The have won a Grand Slam in the year of a world cup, not the year before. They have injured players to come back. And, to our benefit, there will be a two week gap between the second last and last games in the Group. Not saying we will do any better in 2023 vs previous years, it's just that this team expects to win, isn't relying on "on our day we can beat anyone" guff that applies to 90% of all top-tier teams, and is the first Irish team I can remember, in any sport, that is comfortable being the favourites in most of the matches it plays.

[@IrishPride7]

Goosebumps proud to be Irish the future is green ☘️ we are coming to take the 🌍

[@danielkeane6503]

Ireland, Scotland, France and New Zealand have the toughest tables and knock out rounds in this years world cup Lesser Teams like England, Australia, and Argentina could do better from their tables and draws so to win the world cup is going to be the toughest world cup to win ever because the first four teams are the best in the world apart from South Africa

[@richardmatatahi4563]

What do you mean apart from South Africa??? Ireland, Scotland & South Africa are pool B New Zealand & France pool A Don't upset the South Africans now they're ranked 4th. One of you's are going home. Only two from each pool group can make the Qtr final

[@danielkeane6503]

@@richardmatatahi4563 Scotland will give Ireland a good match it will be fierce and tough South Afrika will do the same which two of these teams will qualify, they will have injuries how many groups are there

[@richardmatatahi4563]

@@danielkeane6503 ABC&D, 4 with 5 teams in each, The 1st game opener will decide who wins pool A against France & New Zealand. Main thing for pool B is to finish 2nd in group play to at least play the winner in pool A, Either the All Blacks or the French & still have a stab at a semi final berth, and I by no means am counting out Scotland, that would be foolhardy. Same for all the pool games. The Top 5 teams are in pool A & B no doubt one of them will be World Champ, I'm sure. But stranger things have happened, and pool C & D would need an upset to change the story, in the semi finals, and I wouldn't rule that out.

[@danielkeane6503]

@@richardmatatahi4563 I Think Argentina, Australia or Wales can win the world cup if all goes their way i would love nothing more than Ireland to win but Argentina, and Australia are going in under the radar and Australia gave Ireland a hell of a match last year and beat the all blacks in a match so if they click dont be surprised if the win who ever they meet in the semis or final could be battered and bruised or have a lot of injuries the teams Ireland will do battle with are as tough as any team can get

[@richardmatatahi4563]

@@danielkeane6503 Like a South African commented recently, this could be the 1st time South Africa doesn't pass the quarter finals, and the All Blacks could miss out too as well.Potentially 3 Northern Hemisphere teams could make the semi finals with Australia or Argentina, winning through with England to the semi finals. But I can't see New Zealand or South Africa laying down here. The best team on the day will win, and rankings will go out the window as well the All Blacks know so well, being ranked number 1 doesn't give you the right to the Cup a few deciding factors need to happen 1st. Luck will play a part....Good luck to All, it's gonna be one hell of a hum dinger.

[@kippsguitar6539]

You sound like the sun newspaper in the UK, hilarious

[@eamonlyons8318]

If Andy Farrell does get us beyond a quarter final, he will be our best coach

[@eternalfearless4532]

Best ever Irish team - obviously. Big test is on the biggest world-stage of the world cup. We'll see. I'm Irish and hopeful, but won't be surprised if they don't EVEN make it out of their group. If they keep on improving though, it's only a matter of time before they DO win the world cup.

[@sharkbait6631]

watching the 6nations games...winning games during this tournament is one thing but i look at exisring players and chances of peak in a team at a certain time...and i think England's chances of reaching the final @WC is higher than France and Ireland. my opinion..

[@russellturner1909]

Draw against the nz Maori and Barnes had to help against nz .

[@jordanbjorn8409]

@2:56👀 💀💀🤣

[@RoyBattyLives]

This will mean very little unless we get beyond that QF. I’m worried about that pressure. Pressure showed against England in the first half. We can beat anyone on the day but we need to beat ourselves too

[@taintabird23]

They kept their heads and played their way into the game. They seem to relish pressure.

[@Corkman]

im so fuckin proud of these lads. Excellent work on every match

[@jamiejp4007]

Ireland are awesome atm, no denying it. Destroying, revolutionising, changing, owning or whatever verb gets used are pretty hyperbolic. When they've dominated for a number of years like the All Blacks or Wallabies at the turn of the century then we can talk about "destroying".

[@richardmatatahi4563]

you won the Test series 2-1 against the All Blacks and equalled England's record of 2 wins on New Zealand's soil since 1905, still didn't out score the All Blacks, in that 3 match series. The 2 matches against the Maori All Blacks was drawn 1-1 and didn't out score them either. I don't call that dominated. We went on to lose to Argentina also their 1st ever win, on New Zealand soil, and a week later we lost to South Africa 4 games in a row. At that point the All Blacks sank to their lowest ranking ever to 5th, since ranking were introduced in 2002. Many were counting the All Blacks out of winning the Southern Hemisphere Championship. But they dug deep and after beating Argentina 53-3 and South Africa on the return matches, then played Australia narrowly winning the 1st game after being awarded a last minute penalty and scoring a dramatic last minute try to seal the win, next game was a comfortable win against Australia, and we narrowly won the Southern Championship from South Africa. Cut a long story short we beat Japan narrowly, Wales & Scotland and what many considered the disappointing draw against England after blowing a healthy lead. That year can be remembered for all the wrong reasons Our coaching woes are now settled with Ian Foster not putting his name forward for the job in 2024, and ending as All Black coach at the 2023 RWC. We have Super Rugby Pacific in full swing after Covid disrupted our game for the last couple of years, and it's confirmed Scott Robinson will lead the All Blacks 2024. Sorry for going on, Ireland did deserve their famous Test Series win on New Zealand soil, but we don't dwell on past performances even if we win, But eye's forward there a small matter of the RWC 2023 to look forward to, and dare I say it, the Best of Irish luck to you..

[@jamiejp4007]

@Richard Matatahi all good but I'm not Irish

[@richardmatatahi4563]

@@jamiejp4007 My apologies cause I think I interpreted your comment wrongly after reading it again. Sorry my bad.

[@taintabird23]

@@richardmatatahi4563 'We don't dwell on past performances'? I laughed out loud. With your analysis, I would beg to differ. We Irish are enjoying our rugby and our success, it is what we do when we are successful in sport, we celebrate and enjoy it - it is part of our culture. We'll have a crack at the World Cup later in the year and we'll enjoy ourselves. We won't be measuring ourselves by other peoples standards, only by our own. At the end of the day, win or lose, our national identity is not defined by our prowess on the rugby field the way it is in NZ or SA. Don't be a buzz killer, we have a different rugby culture in the NH. A simple congratulations is all that is required. Best of luck in the World Cup.

[@richardmatatahi4563]

@@taintabird23 I was talking about us, "WE" lad not Ireland. Don't get your feathers in tangle. Now I maybe a New Zealander but where I come from "WE" doesn't mean you or the Irish rugby team, but our team the All Blacks. Just so there's no misunderstanding. "Top of the morning to ya" yes, before you ask, it's morning here bro made me laugh, cheer's bro. you can go back to sleep now. and da best of Irish luck to you, is that simple enough for you? (No capital letters)

[@ssmcfadyen8520]

Skill factor per player is the difference

[@countycricklewood]

We now have absolutely no excuse for not reaching the World Cup final! Let’s see how we have progressed when there

[@Hic_Rhodus]

Ehhh... yeah no excuse... except for the fact that we would have to pull off probably the most incredible series of back-to-back victories in WC history in order to do it! SA beat Japan and then Wales to get to the last WC Final. Ireland will have to play SA and Scotland at full tilt in their final two pool games just to start! And that will immediately be followed by NZ or France at home. And then maybe England or Australia or Argentina in a semi. Those last 3 games take place within 13 days! We'll be a team of the walking wounded by the semi-finals, even if they can pull it off. But hey... 🤞

[@taintabird23]

@@Hic_Rhodus Every other side is in the same position.

[@Hic_Rhodus]

@@taintabird23 🤔England could lose to Argentina in their pool game and STILL not worry too much about qualifying. Then (they or maybe Argentina) could have a quarter-final against Wales (who have been in a mess for a long while now and struggled to win a single match in the 6 nations). That is nothing like the challenge I just described above for SA/IRL/SCO.

[@taintabird23]

@@Hic_Rhodus I was referring to the Irish side of the draw.

[@Hic_Rhodus]

@@taintabird23 Ehhh... So not "every other side" then. 3 of the top 5 teams in the world have been significantly handicapped for the biggest competition there is... by the type of draw that doesn't happen in nearly any other top sporting event in any other sport in the world. That's the point. (And rugby is one of the most attritional games there is... it's almost like boxing. Injuries and significant damage are an inevitability during/after big matches.)

[@asanulsterman1025]

Time to have both nations on the island of ireland represented by their own teams... give all the others a chance

[@gar7093]

Ulster doesn't represent the six county's it's nine county's ireland is one country when it comes to rugby .the way it should be for all sports in my opinion

[@asanulsterman1025]

@@gar7093 I don't think ROI teams would agree to play under the Ulster banner so why should Ulster teams play under the ROI flag?? Isn't it better to have both nations properly represented?

[@gar7093]

@AsAnUlsterman that's the thing the rugby team doesn't represent the ROI or the six county's it was around before partition its an all ireland team I think it sets a good example of what we can achieve when we put aside our political views and work together . One day soon I hope to see a united ireland and by the look of the way things are going I think it will happen in my lifetime so I don't see the need that's just my opinion

[@asanulsterman1025]

@@gar7093 Well of course it was normal to have one Ireland team when Ireland was one country but now it's two countries and each should be properly represented. It's probably your tired old republican aspirations for a united ireland which prevents you from seeing way forward to a peaceful future of coexistence.

[@Irish780]

I agree most they irish team are leinster u guys go for it yourself

[@marksheehan8026]

Well Ireland are in form .. The main thing really against them and l think most teams are the shocking inept performance of referees and tmos . All hopeing it's not going to be a failure .

[@loughrey101]

Ireland have only conceded 3 yellow cards and zero red cards in the last 12 months and were the only team to not get carded at all in the Six Nations. Ireland have learned to be a very disciplined side and use the ref to their benefit. They're probably the only team that doesn't have to worry about the ref

[@marksheehan8026]

@@loughrey101 certainly hope so ,, and rest of the up n coming W/C journey . Basicly all teams aim to do it right ...

[@taintabird23]

@@loughrey101 As far as I know, no Irish player has had a yellow card in two years. Or was that red cards?

[@bluetheminx]

The only thing that scares me is the inexperience. We almost folded under the pressure of the six nations final

[@IrishPride7]

Well that's an experience completed now isn't it?

[@bluetheminx]

@@IrishPride7 the World Cup is an entirely different experience though

[@stephenmonks5010]

There are only 2 teams with players that experienced winning a world cup that are still playing in those teams... SA and NZ. Which means we should discount every other team too?

[@bluetheminx]

@@stephenmonks5010 terrible take. Those are cultures with a history of winning world cups, coached and surrounded by people who have won them. Never said Ireland should be “discredited” but their inexperience will be tested.

[@stephenmonks5010]

@DamianTheBeholder now that is a different argument to your original one, now it is the country's experience or collective memories... not sure that holds much water. The four winners have history of doing well, but I doubt either England or Australia will be winning this world cup. Most of the irish players have been playing at a high level for club and country for the last 4 or 5 years, and while they wobbled a bit against England, they still won by 13 points, with the most comprehensive 6 nations grand slam victory since England in 2003... and they hadn't won a world cup either. Not saying ireland will win the world Cup, but they are in the best shape they could be at this stage.

[@callumclow2999]

Yeah, about that...

[@andrewmckay9899]

Its a shame the world cup draw is so brutal. Scotland and South Africa potentially followed by France or New Zealand.

[@cushyglen4264]

Can we Irish dare to believe little ol’ Ireland will win the World Cup?

[@user-ej3jy6eg6h]

New Zealand has the same number of people

[@rudidedog243]

@@user-ej3jy6eg6h yes but we have more spots played nationality which draws from the pool of athletes

[@cushyglen4264]

@@user-ej3jy6eg6h NZ don’t have a native sport like Gaelic games that competes for 1000s of players.

[@judezern6080]

the Irish are back

[@csv9454]

South Africans commenting. Just know this our 4th most played sport behind Gaelic football, hurling and soccer. With a population in the republic of 4.8 million and the north 1.2. Compared to 60 million in South Africa. Before ye go on with yer arrogance, just know a population 1/10 the size of you is better than you at your own game, when it’s not even our own game 😂 just imagine if the gaa boys played.

[@jackthegamer4019]

Let’s see how they handle the World Cup.