How will the rugby world see this Ireland team after World Cup exit?

[@MHaste]

I'm a Kiwi and I can safely say I don't see Ireland as chokers. The margins are small at the top, all of the top teams can beat each other on their day. Today was our day, that's just the way it goes sometimes but it doesn't take away from this Irish team being one the best teams I've ever seen. Respect to the team and fans hold ya heads high.

[@rieske2000]

They have. They are so good! No 1 in the world playing fantastic rugby a joy to watch … if not with this team when?

[@bernardadams8074]

Maybe next time, who knows? Great game, I think just a touch here or there. Doesn’t undermine anything.

[@Patrick-sheen]

At last someone with a bit of class. Rugby was always about the best man wins, shake hands and move on. Unfortunately it’s been invaded by soccer types who can’t just appreciate a great contest. Congratulations NZ, great effort.

[@plutoniumnitrate1201]

8 quarter finals and 8 exits.....mate come on.....if not chokers then what....hopefuls for 2027......world cups are rules by the south now and forever

[@wezvandez]

8 quarter final exits...of course they are chokers. That record is the very definition.

[@gerhardclaassen2102]

Maybe one lesson to learn is. The AB's can lose 10 games in a row and still come back and punish you. We as SA understand this.

[@cameronjohns8639]

Except they have never lost 10 in a row, off memory 5 in a row in 1998 is their worst run

[@activegas1014]

"Can lose"

[@Rotowhaka]

⁠@@cameronjohns8639six back in 1949, 4 against the springboks in SA, and two in NZ against Australia at the same time, team in SA

[@schoolofpiracy]

@@RotowhakaThat one had skipped my memory

[@cameronjohns8639]

@@Rotowhaka thank you 😊

[@collian]

As a kiwi. I feel for Ireland. A game deserved of a Grand Final...that was a knife edge battle for the ages. That last 30 phases had both teams running on Fumes. Hold your heads up Ireland. That Irish team threw everything. Hugest Respect from NZ.

[@yermanoffthetelly]

Well done mate, you deserved it in fairness. Definitely the better team tonight. Now go win it so we don't feel so bad 😉 🇮🇪🤝🇳🇿

[@michaelmarama-de4gx]

George Gregans face immediately came to my mind as soon as the final whistle blew 4 MORE YEARS

[@collian]

@@michaelmarama-de4gx That 4 more years line still hurts a lil to this day.

[@Rugby-union-and-league]

I don't with all the bragging and arrogance I've seen from Irish fans

[@yermanoffthetelly]

@@Rugby-union-and-league Mate you are literally leaving negative comments on other teams that you are not even playing rather than supporting your own. 🤷

[@sibzism]

What Ireland could have done to win that game is not obvious to the naked eye. They played INCREDIBLY. But New Zealand was back to being EXCEPTIONAL. 🇳🇿🇳🇿 ❤

[@lockoshocko]

Personally I don't buy into it I think this was there final they were hurting after the test series and waiting in the long grass for us !should get to the final and will loose ,Hope I'm proved wrong as this defeat would be easier to take if kiwis won .

[@sibzism]

@markmcloughlin1211 Yeah fair... Either way, Ireland has had a sensational year so plenty for them to celebrate 😊 New Zealand reminded the world about who they are! 💪🏾🇳🇿 Now, if my Springboks can get past the French tomorrow...🤞🏾🇿🇦 🙏🏾

[@giftgreen3748]

Ireland is not a strong team at all. They are overrated. I knew they were not gonna pass the QF

[@mikedon5205]

​@giftgreen3748 so on that you don't think NZ are that great then

[@dn822]

You needed a flyhalf

[@koiselectsa]

Dont knock yourselves. I was at the game. Ireland was superb. Ireland is a great addition to the global game. Hold your heads high.

[@Wherethebuffaloroam11]

Sure we’ve been playing the global game for decades. It’s not that diverse there are 5/6 superpowers and that’s it. It’s borderline madness we haven’t played in a wc semi by now

[@zizoh3993]

Those ignorant irish fans now😅

[@anthonyofarrell]

Typical Irish attitude, sure it was great getting to the quarter finals, we had a party and a sing song.

[@jackdeegan3617]

​@@zizoh3993You can tell a Bokke fan from a 1000 miles 😂😂😂

[@ae_marika.9551]

The majority of us AB fans have massive respect for Irish rugby. Ireland can be proud of their team. In regards to the interview panal. Number 1 ranking and the favorite tag counts for nothing. ABs have entered nearly every RWC as favorite or ranked number 1. We learnt through time that RWC cycle dominance and the favorite tag counts little at finsls footy. We only have 3 out of 8 RWCs to show for 25 odd years of dominance. Keep your head up Ireland, we know your pain, and no doubt you'll be back and better.

[@fu8713]

Speak for yourself dopey

[@richardeveritt974]

This is exactly the right take.

[@conor7171]

Mate, we are so thoroughly dissappointed as a nation that its hard to put into words right now. It really has all been for nothing and the history books will simply show another QF exit for Ireland. You guys had a phenomenal performance and showed up when it counts, but once again, the opposite has happened for us. I spent a year living in your country and have seen first hand that your culture has a winning attitude from grass roots up. But we seem to doubt ourselves at every level. Good luck for the semis, you should have no problem with the pumas if you play like that again!

[@tonysa2337]

The ABs have won 3 out of 9 RWCs they have played.

[@ae_marika.9551]

@@tonysa2337 You are correct, I forgot to add England's RWC. I only added the SH RWCs.

[@sifisomagagula5476]

Hahaha that panel has never been this sombre this whole world cup. Thank you ABs for serving some humble pie.

[@aidanwatson7855]

NZer here. Hold your heads high Ireland. You had an amazing run. You still are a fantastic rugby nation. You’re still a top team. 1 narrow defeat doesn’t make you chokers. If the ABs played Ireland again next weekend for a random test match, it could easily go the other way. But sport is sport and someone has to win, and someone has to lose. And this Ireland is still fantastic

[@kingkongkong2204]

Fuk up from Ireland

[@SuperZangieff]

This coming from a German Rugby Fan: Both teams played a game that has to rank among the top 10 games played in the sports history ever. It was absolutely epic. I know it doesn't help at this very moment, but to be part of that game certainly is an achievement way more valuable than a semi finals appearance. If England beats Fidschi tomorrow, what does that mean? Nothing. Be proud of this team. If it hadn't been for a disastrous draw a semi final spot would have been automatic. Phantastic team, absolutely brilliant.

[@jpr_xv]

If England or Fiji win tomorrow it means they're semi finalists, so it most definitely means something and is where all teams want to be.

[@SuperZangieff]

@@jpr_xv If Fidji wins I agree it means something. If England wins, it doesn't mean anything at all. It will be the result of a ridiculous draw and they will be pulverized by either France or SA. But even if Fidji wins it will not mean even 50% of what Ireland has accomplished over the last 24 month.

[@EMMYK1916]

​@@SuperZangieffI 100% agree with you about the bloody draw. I mean Jesus, we put so many hard, physically tough matches behind us before entering the match this evening. Yes, we lost, and fair play to the AB'S, but I think there has to be some improvement on the whole draw situation.

[@2011hwalker]

England wont be "pulverized". They have a very strong pack and big set of backs in this WC. They will lose but they will not get smashed. @@SuperZangieff

[@jpr_xv]

@@SuperZangieff Well as Warren Gatland said teams complaining about the draw should have done better at the previous world cup. England reached the final in 2019 so they had the second best seeding. Anyhow you won't here someone like Andy Farrell complaining anytime about 'ridiculous draws'. He gets on with it and will know Ireland should have done much better. Australia, Wales and England were all placed in the same group in 2015, how was that for a draw?? Otherwise with your view on the no 1 side in the world for two years getting knocked out in the quarter finals meaning more than another team reaching the semis, it sounds like the green lager is flowing a bit too freely in Germany!

[@gwen4640]

As a French what an incredible game from both teams it was amazing to watch thank you, it seems like a final with the intensity and the scenario. But the Rugby World cup draw was a shame this game and the last quarter final should be minimum a semi final and not a quarter final, Ireland deserve a minimum of a semifinal this year with the amazing level of rugby. See you in the 6 nations dear Irish friends you diserve better in this world cup, i hope an amazing game against you at the Stade de France.

[@anthonyr587]

I didn't see anyone whinging about the World Cup draw in 2019 when England had to beat Australia and New Zealand to get to the final, and South Africa had poxy Japan and Wales.

[@JohnORourke-j6t]

I agree with your sentiments friend

[@Siphamandla.Ngcobo]

One thing about world rankings is that they mean little when it comes to knockouts.

[@mlguy8376]

But mean something in setting up the group stages - they should be set up nicely next WC though.

[@Siphamandla.Ngcobo]

@@mlguy8376 yep.

[@Siphamandla.Ngcobo]

@@randomyoutubeuser3 I appreciate your graciousness in defeat.

[@bevanritete9954]

As an AB supporter ive seen the ABs fail 6 times in the RWC as World number 1, I take my hat off to the Irish and thank you very much for the Beautiful Running Rugby 🙏 Reminds me of the Vintage All Blacks. Run Run Run Run and never let go 💔

[@EMMYK1916]

And ye didn't let go! Best of luck going forward in the competition. Just seems like a shame, so many of our lads won't be around for the next cycle. As I said earlier, it's the bloody unrelenting hope that'll kill you!!

[@stevethomas3502]

Yup - I was already resigned to us losing to the Irish, I've been so impressed with their rugby that I wanted to see them go the whole way. All I can say is - I know that pain.

[@Rugby-union-and-league]

We weren't number 1 in 6 world cups we lost maybe a couple

[@Rugby-union-and-league]

​@@stevethomas3502can't stand pessimists never ever underestimate NZ

[@nzfreeski]

..but got 3 cups and made the qtrs every time - and the semis 9 from 10, and 5 finals from 10.

[@nainoa6848]

Ireland are a brilliant team they have nothing to be ashamed of. Draw didn’t favor any of the top 5 teams in the world. What a game. Respect from an ABs fan

[@Gauldfinger1]

The best or great teams sadly don’t always win it. I loved the NZ team in 95-97 but they failed to win a World Cup. My own team, Scotland, came close in 91 but lost against England in the semi. The current Ireland team are superb! Don’t be too hard on them as you don’t win 17 in a row without being one of greatest.

[@roblouw3038]

Ireland were not a great team nor the best - all teams need to understand that tournament rugby is very different to the annual pretty season games where a team collects Noddy Badges along the way - the only two teams to grasp this are SA and NZ and their records speak for them -

[@stellen11]

LOL great teams dont go out in quarter finals.

[@sean_43]

​@@stellen11Are you really this thick Lol? Do you think one tournament every four years is all that matters? So by your rationale, should we just not play any rugby between world cups? Should we have no world rankings because you don't like the fact that Ireland were ranked number one?

[@Doodle100a]

No one apart from the Irish will remember this team, which granted is a bit harsh but they won nothing and choked as usual when it came to the hard bit

[@sean_43]

@@Doodle100a do you know what choking means? It means totally underperforming due to pressure. That's not what happened. They lost by four points to a fantastic team in as tight a game as you could see. Do you think former world number one golfers Lee Westwood and Luke Donald were not great golfers because they never win majors?

[@davidneiland9731]

I'M COMPLETELY Broken Hearted 💔 😭........But what a test match!! So proud of the boys in Green ☘️🇮🇪☘️. The finest of margins, a sport of absolute inches, where Dan Sheehan would attest that a bounce of a ball can make all the difference. Ireland were a held up try from winning & 37 phases of play to finish with no reward 😢. Many congratulations New Zealand, your AB's did you prouder 👏.

[@ABC-dw7pe]

The tubby git (Sheehan) was never making that catch he’s not Michael Jordan

[@ciaranbrk]

@@ABC-dw7peif that ball was lower you he was gone.unfortunately it wasn’t and nz got the win and well deserved.

[@pman3522]

I am also gutted but proud of the team . I don't think we will ever see a better lrish team again. Legends !!

[@Sean-ts8lp]

I would rather be ashamed and have won

[@gtestastretta1]

😂

[@RenierKapp]

You will not cop anything or any flack, as a saffa I will always remember this caveat as to how good this Irish team was. Respect to you guys, the Zombie I will always remember

[@Innerlight320]

Choked ✈️

[@paddyanglais91]

​@@randomyoutubeuser3NZ didn't enter the Irish 22 after the 52nd minute. It was a choke in every sense of the word.

[@fraz6354]

You don't speak for everyone. They will receive loads of flak.

[@BearachMT]

We panicked. They didn't. Congratulations to NZ. You were the better team . Best of luck in the rest of the tournament.

[@RenierKapp]

Buddy, for the first time ever the Irish are truly respected as a rugby force. You were amazing and I am sad you are out so early, nothing to do with QF choking etc, small margins and great teams. I am excited for you guys and I tip my hat to a legend JS leaving the game

[@OB.777]

No they were shit... Ireland. .joe Smith rox

[@jacqloock]

True. When Sexton hooked that sitter my mate said the cat’s amongst the pigeons now in every Irish head and he was not wrong. At least you’re not a Safrican cricket supporter so there’s that…

[@Driver2616]

The better team didn’t win. There was no better team. There were just small moments here and there which means that within an 80 minute time period, one team or another will benefit over the other…

[@daratheprofessional1827]

​@@Driver2616NZ played their best... Ireland didn't.

[@Benny-v7y]

Richie said it best “ you don’t have to be the world number 1 team to win - you just have to be number one on Saturday” that’s clearly what the AB were thinking - they put everything behind them and focused on winning . They didn’t flinch and totally deserved the win . Even with two sin bins

[@nifokoula1]

What a game! Almost like a final. Kiwis all over have so much respect for Ireland. Both teams played and left everything out in the field. Well done AB’s and Irish fans: we’ll take this one but thank Ireland for setting the standard in the past 2 years. You can be proud of Ireland and please don’t bag them. They are world class! Sexton is a legend as in Andy Farrell

[@kirkclearidge7616]

Well Said Ireland were awesome 😊

[@benweare8548]

I love how New Zealand were called chokers during the period we weren’t winning world cups, and everyone said our dominance in World Cup years meant nothing. When the shoe is on the other foot it’s the other way around 😂

[@samod7550]

We simply didnt show up tonight with the same intensity, sharpness and pace as our previous matches. We made silly unforces handling errors and decisions kicking out of hand to give away possession, as well as leavinf runners isolated and allowing stupid turnovers. Nz also played brilliantl however. The best team on the day won fair and square. Kudos to the AB's

[@EMMYK1916]

Line outs were all over the place aswell. Handling too seemed very off. Ah sure, that's it lads. For another 4 years. Good luck to all teams that are left. 😉

[@dreday77764]

It was the best team in Irish history vs one of the worst ABs team.

[@gideonporter537]

Both sides made errors. Because both sides created that much pressure. Hats off to both. Ireland it was 50/50 99% of that game.

[@notthisprickagain8499]

​@@dreday77764Ireland were poor. France will win

[@dalerapata4016]

@@notthisprickagain8499😂😂😂

[@paulcoffield2102]

Margins are tight, but questions should be asked. That's 0/8 now in QFs for Ireland, and this was the one WC that they had a genuine shout at winning and didn't.

[@alangovern2112]

Agreed, don't know why our public and media are so tolerant of failure, if new zealand had lost last night, serious questions would have been asked and solutions found. Instead we happy little paddies were just satisfied to have lost well and had a few pints in the process. We are way too tolerant of failure in this country.

[@georgebabs7027]

I am a Springbok fan & always called the Irish chokers BEFORE this World Cup! BUT, they did NOT choke this World Cup. World Rugby let down fans by having the Irish All Blacks France & the Boks meet each other in the 1/4 finals. The Irish & the All Blacks played an incredible game, and Ireland should be respected for what they have done>They deserved to be a semi-finalists at the least. But The All blacks like the Boks know how to win

[@kevinmcentee5184]

Ireland were brilliant in the World Cup . They played a brand of rugby never seen before. Congrats Andy Farrell . Well done Johnny what an example to all aspiring players in Ireland. I hope you stay involved in the coming years .

[@jacklegros6614]

😂😂😂😂

[@dashingeduardosuarez]

Haaaahaahahah!!!!!!!!!! Sexton was an embarrassment of a captain and all Farrell managed to produce with a 'brand never seen before' was another QF choke. With supporters like you, it's really no surprise nothing changes for Ireland.

[@darrelbrown590]

The ABs can deliver when it counts.The Irish were relentless on attack.The ABs 2 yellow cards only 14 players and a penalty try against them…they dug in and worked real hard on defense….pary time in NZ

[@zico1583]

Great game

[@aaronahchee7484]

I was proud of them!

[@OldRhino]

As a Saffa I have never screamed so loud at the TV. 😂

[@troubadour4079]

New zealand were phenomenal a credit to rugby, Ireland couldn't cope. From a proud Irish man well done NZ go and win it😊

[@Moamanly]

I have to say, there are so many gracious comments online from Irish fans-it is a credit to you. The rest of us should take note, follow suit and ignore the loudmouth exceptions.

[@nepiahemopo1702]

​@@MoamanlyAnyone come to mind?

[@Moamanly]

@@nepiahemopo1702 Not really mate, just the usual suspects. Every country has its fair share of wankers eh?

[@jackdeegan3617]

​@@MoamanlyAlways a pleasure to play the All Blacks despite our poor record against you 😂😂. Now go on and do the business at the weekend and then smash those loudmouth wankers 12000km west of you in the final. Most of the Irish will be cheering for NZ from here on in.

[@Moamanly]

@@jackdeegan3617 Appreciate that Jack but we have to get to the final first! Small steps mate, small steps.

[@realdudevision2746]

This Irish team is legendary (love 🇿🇦)

[@tevildo45]

Legendary for what? Got bottling

[@2011hwalker]

hardly....legendary choke

[@yoshibhoy8158]

For not making past the quarterfinals……legendary alright zombie zombie

[@Robbybabes1988]

Not one legend in sight

[@nepiahemopo1702]

Why does Sexton expect the world to "cook him some eggs"😂😂😂

[@user-gp1eh3yb2w]

The Ireland team is world class and you guys can be very proud of what you’ve achieved. Your youth system is strong too and I have no doubt you will win the World Cup one day. Our Boks have a big one later and hope we can pull that off. The nerves are shot already…

[@cam5736]

Great to see smug Rob and Shane - and the rest of Irish media - put right back in their box. One day you’ll see a last 4 match, lads. Feel for the Irish team and the supporters though. Excellent craic, quality players and you lot will come again.

[@yoshibhoy8158]

Yep

[@djbu88]

Couldn't agree more.

[@eoinleen1]

Christ that's a miserable way to live your life. Bitter, wanting others to be "put back in their box". Sometimes you lose the game, that's ok, life goes on. You should continue to have hope and optimism...you should never go back into your box.

[@andymccreight3175]

​@@eoinleen1Think thats a pretty normal mentality you mong

[@eoinleen1]

@@andymccreight3175"You mong" 😂

[@DenizenGlobal]

Love seeing the host eating humble pie after last weeks comments!

[@stephenlouwbiokineticist4127]

Heartbreak for an amazing rugby side and rugby nation.

[@sljones9103]

But they never reached a world cup semi final even hardly a great team

[@tevildo45]

Not a rugby nation either

[@aleccastro4761]

35 phases against a brick wall does not make you chokers - let alone all the other brilliance in the last few years. Nothing but massive respect for the Irish from SA

[@tevildo45]

Bottlers

[@Robbybabes1988]

Kinda does make you a choker, 35 phases not knowing what to do with the ball😂😂😂

[@aleccastro4761]

@@Robbybabes1988 they did everything they could, and it was immense and exciting. Rugby's rules currently favour the defending side, so it's not actually that simple to penetrate; it's a wall of bodies and hands that immediately grab the ball as it hits the ground, followed by ref's whistle. Again, Ireland didn't choke, they tried everything.

[@Robbybabes1988]

@@aleccastro4761 How the game was played will not remembered. The loss will be remembered. Quarter final chokers.

[@aleccastro4761]

@@Robbybabes1988 What will be remembered is a matter of personal choice - I know what I will remember.

[@Samuel-bu7xr]

You’ve got to beat the best to be the best. This game typifies that.

[@schmurgen5242]

Ireland are an incredible side, it was down to the toss of a coin and fine margins. The game deserved to be the final. I could only ever see Ireland or France beating them, I think the cup is theirs now

[@matthewdanna8800]

Fine margins. It must be said that this NZ side has some generational players (Whitelock, Brodie, Cane, Savea, the Barretts, Richie, Smith, Coles, etc.) most of which are playing their last RWC. Ireland is on the ascendency, and will have their day, either in AUS '27 or USA '31

[@therelinquished4751]

Yeah but we also have younger players too, our props all young, jordie and rieko both 26 centre pairings, young scrum half coming up that debatively should have been on the bench. These 2 teams will definitely be seeing each other again next world cup

[@mark8200]

I remember hearing that in 2011 and 2015 😂 it's a nice cope I guess

[@leilyndrawiri1858]

​@mark8200 that's what I was thinking whatever makes you sleep at night bro you do you 😅

[@yoshibhoy8158]

That’s what you guys said 4 years ago hahahaha. Let’s be honest it was Ireland RWC to lose Ireland was by far the best team in the world but not tonight zombies zombies hahahaha

[@racketman2u]

@@yoshibhoy8158 ... with their bombs, and their bombs, in your head, in your head ....!!! but seriously, they know they can play with the big boys , they'll be back

[@mcorco516]

How will the rugby world see this Ireland team after World Cup exit? So glad you asked that question. Eternal quarter final chokers. End of.

[@bernieob9577]

Johnny sexton is a legend and we are so grateful to have had such a humble, amazing captain , be proud of your achievements Johnny ❤

[@wolfburner2262]

Humble until he insults the ref...

[@Beb_73]

Humble? His poor behaviour at the HC finals was far from humble... And when he was called upon to deliver at all the WC games he played, he never drove his team enough to win any of those games. Hardly a legend!

[@Paul-xh2eu]

What are you on Bernie ? He cursed and harassed the ref, and was foul mouthing off after the game. Has a history of cursing and hassling refs. F sake, see the facts. Whining whining whining is his history. NZ Most humble and hardest working people I know. Can’t beat 14 Men for 20 mins, sad, even ref was on irelands side. Fakes. Either you have Class or you don’t. Simple as. NZ class.

[@anthonyronan5843]

Thanks Bernie. Please don’t ever ever ever comment on rugby again.. please

[@Leon-en9il]

I must’ve been living under a rock - why does everyone think Sexton is anything special ? Mediocre at best . I guess we have higher standards in …..

[@JustScents101]

Could have, should have, would have but they didn’t. The best teams are defined by these big moments. The moments that really count in the biggest stage of all

[@JohnWick-nm6vo]

SA fan perspective Im so glad IRE so good with out proper contests we would never have such epic games, Its why I watch rugby 2 teams close to par battling it out makes for the most intense matches. Respect to IRE on another day they could have won it.

[@lrh5206]

Irish rugby pundit hubris has done them dirty, I am absolutely loving watching all of the fallout xD

[@blakesmith9844]

That’s our game, the best team on the night wins. I’m pumped for world rugby. If we can bring the other tier 2 teams through future RWCups are gonna be incredible.

[@EMMYK1916]

Agree, that great Portuguese team were a pleasure to watch.

[@kajunbrookingcomedian171]

Ireland didn’t choke. They were in it to the last second. I’m a NZL and I was nervous as hell until Whitelock sealed the deal.

[@lindsayj56]

Agree, but they all blacks were the better team today.

[@Rugby-union-and-league]

Still choked

[@MrWellls]

Ireland reminds me of a All Black 2007 team, where they are favorite's but when it came to the end of it a better team mentality won the game, not saying that ireland wasn't a bad team just that they felt like they were miss firing during the game with small mistakes

[@Rugby-union-and-league]

No NZ were totally robbed in 2007 bad comparison

[@garthlivingstone5764]

I think Ireland were more focused on retaining their STATUS of being "unbeaten" and of being ranked No. 1 in the world than they were of winning the World Cup. World Champions focus on getting to the Final. Forget everything else. Sometimes in life it's a curse to be so successful, especially when you take your eyes off your goal. Goal No 1, make it to the final. Goal No 2, win ir. No airs, no graces... But they remain a formidable force...Just not ranked No 1 for now nor World Champs for the next 4 years.

[@johnpeter3626]

ireland are still a great team...most consistent recently... 🇿🇦 ❤ 🇮🇪

[@Llooktook]

The way Ireland plays is beautiful and brilliant, that game could have gone anyway! this Ireland team is world class nothing can dispute that.

[@JaemanEdwards]

No. Just compare the tries scored. Ireland play predictable processed rugby. They will never be able to score, exciting long range tries from their own half like the All Blacks. They are inferior in skill and athleticism. They can only score in the 22. Boring.

[@roberto4001000]

​@@JaemanEdwardsput down the crack pipe there son you've had enough .

[@tiaancloete7301]

Easy to say in hindsight but sureley Ireland with a bit of a struggling lineout should have opted to kick for the posts more often? One can understand the attacking mindset to go for the tries but sureley you wanna build some scoreboard pressure first before you go for the line? Especially in a knockout game.. Either way its all water under the bridge now. Well played Ireland and Nz was a fantastic game of rugby.

[@kurtz7221]

Agree. Those first minutes when NZ scored 3 and Ireland went for the lineout instead of the 3 points was the start of it all to me. They made a 50/50 bet early on that they could take the lead on that action but they didn't. What followed were endless attempts to chase the game without ever being able to reverse the trend. This tactically cost them the game, genuinely. As a French, although still being confident about tomorrow, I know this is the exact scenario France can fall into facing SA.

[@Robbybabes1988]

Agree, dumb rugby in knockout game. Sexton was too static on attack, kinda easy for NZ to defend.

[@shanetengaio5853]

Ireland are a fantastic team and definitely had the team to win the RWC . You need a bit of luck to win the tournament and the Allblacks showed that they still have the ability to man up and dig deep when they have to.

[@mpgnz73]

Ireland had all the luck with the ref decisions in the game. So much so that their opponents were down to 14 men for 20 minutes whilst many of their infringements went practically unpunished. In truth the 4 point margin flattered Ireland.

[@Jay-Leigh863]

Ireland are a great team and no one is denying that but what they still need to develop is depth. They played their first choice players throughout the tournament and it was inevitable they would not be able to handle the intensity of the knockout stages. i made this comment before the game and I stand by it. The Springboks and NZ have depth. I think NZ depth is not where it always was in the past and that's why some results maybe weren't quite the same as in the past but a full strength NZ team, as they were tonight, is still going to put it over any team in the world. As a South African I'm hoping my team can emulate NZ tomorrow!

[@mac2654]

But Ireland have loads of dept they just chose to go with consistency. I don't think the players were worn out in any way and were still going until the end. That game was on a knife edge and could have gone either way.

[@HemiJB91]

Mark my words. NZ just played there final. Boks will take it

[@rikiwikeepa4684]

There is 3 kiwis playing for Ireland there are kiwi an ex All black players playing for other countries we’ve lost heaps of players but we keep going getting tougher tho

[@rhondajacob1704]

Me too re SA

[@ciaranbrk]

I don’t think it’s that. Almost any other team we would have gotten past today NZ just had one of their best games in years.

[@rad7142]

Ireland have been exceptional in their play, the evolution for Ireland is to implement rotation in the team. Having the same team play each week does take a toll. Look at the All Blacks and world cups, you need experience across the board. Ireland played so well, you will do better. All Black supporters love this. Push us to the limit we push you to the limit and may the best team win. Become number one and watch how everyone is wanting to take your crown, Kia Kaha!

[@MrAhuapai]

Ireland now sit at the top table of Rugby Union and I cant see them being displaced for some time yet. They are a wonderful team and Ireland should be very proud of their achievements. Meas ollmhór ón Nua-Shéalainn . Kia kaha na Aotearoa.

[@spud7823]

😩Argentina being written off, these people never learn.

[@benjamindewes2345]

Absolutely, don't write off the Argies, they've beaten us at home, they have what it takes

[@JohnWick-nm6vo]

Im sorry did you watch that game NZ would of put 70+ on that broken welsh team.

[@spud7823]

@@JohnWick-nm6vo nonsense, your sounding like the Irish pundits, all blacks lost to pumas the other day.

[@barryosullivan1486]

Congratulations to New Zealand. They were the better team on the night. Absolutely gutted for Ireland. They are an incredible group of players - Farrell and Sexton particularly are class acts. This will hurt for a while but I'm sure we are on the right track and can crack the quarter final hoodoo sooner rather then later. New Zealand are class acts and were gracious in defeat last year so we pay back that respect and say good luck for the rest of the tournament to them.

[@JaemanEdwards]

The All Blacks are the better team period. If not for being down to 14 for 20 minutes, the All Blacks would have romped it. You will never see Ireland score long range tries from their own half like the All Blacks. They are inferior in skill and athleticism.

[@leemorgan6297]

It’s fascinating that we (🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿) played awful but for 30-minutes our QF, and Ire played well for most of theirs. Yet we will both go down equally as only quarter finalists of this WC, and in a decades time only the winner will be remembered. Furthermore, only the Irish will be looking back on the time Ireland were ranked number 1 in the world.

[@AndreLoockCT]

Matt Williams😂😂😂😂😂

[@rodwellchigome7567]

As RWC Pool Stage Champions.

[@kinghomeboy]

As an ALL BLACKS fan there is one thing that most of us all blacks fan DO THINK ABOUT THE IRISH ... THEY ARE NOT CHOKERS!!!! Ireland played their HEARTS OUT and left EVERYTHING ON THE FIELD!!!! So for the love of rugby, please stop using that word.

[@katatonickiwi8310]

Another comparison would be compared to what i think was the best overall AB squad to go to a world cup, with world number 1 spot, a massive thrashing of the French earlier in the season, the 2007 AB squad, look what happened there. A loss to the same French squad in a quarter. Sometimes shit happens if it isn't your day. Bad luck Ireland, your time will come

[@2011hwalker]

will it come though?? Hard to replace players like OMahony, Sexton Furlong who are on their way out...Aki, Lowe wont be elite in 4 years time...

[@katatonickiwi8310]

They still have a bloody good squad/coaching team. The Irish U20's are performing better now aren't they? I'd rather be in the position of an Irish fan than say a Wallaby fan. @@2011hwalker

[@carbonblade1]

From an England supporter: Ireland have been the best team for a while now absolutely no arguments. NZ series win, Grand slam against an amazing France team, 17 win run against the best level of teams in the history of rugby (including 2 wins against the current champs SA) - I mean the level of the top few teams now is insane and Ireland have been top of them playing clever physical rugby with heart and passion. In my eyes, World Cup trophy or not, they are one of the best teams to ever play the game....end of. The future is very bright for Irish rugby and I’m almost dreading England getting smashed come the 6 nations. Well done Ireland you should be immensely proud.

[@JaemanEdwards]

No. Not end of. Ireland were just lucky Ian Foster was coaching the All Blacks. This All Blacks team is so much better than Ireland, it's not funny.

[@carbonblade1]

@@JaemanEdwards they clearly are…end of. World record win streak is 18 and they had 17 including multiple wins over both NZ, SA and a world class French team. End of.

[@JaemanEdwards]

@@carbonblade1 Out in the quarters. Yet again. End of.

[@captain.awesome4172]

I dont think ireland chocked...ABs just did their homework. TWO yellow cards for the ABs...that was the ABs fault for letting ireland stay in the game

[@cobusbrits2]

No bro, they choked. Being no1 for so long, winning the top teams, they still couldnt pull it off.

[@CricketX-RSA]

As a Saffa, I have to applaud this as one of the greatest teams I have ever seen. Unbelievably unlucky to come up against New Zealand when they were as desperate as they have ever been. Ireland are the biggest victims of this lob sided draw and I wouldn't overthink the quarter finals hoodoo. This team won 17 in a row, they won a series in New Zealand, a grand slam... One of the best sides there has ever been, and the Springboks have done well to try and emulate the incredible short pass attack which the Irish have pioneered.

[@nepiahemopo1702]

They lost their 8th quarter final, or are you taking the urine?😮

[@horatiohuskisson5471]

Got and English mum and a South African dad, was rooting for Ireland and they most certainly are not chokers. It’s so unlucky to win the group and come up against the ABs but you do have to beat the best to win, no matter the stage of the tournament

[@Leon-en9il]

So you are a traitor then 😂

[@chucktee8088]

That is still choking how ever you slice it

[@aaronahchee7484]

As a NZer I’m glad I got to witness that game. Both teams emptied the tank, who was gonna make the play to win the game. 1 play was what it came down to. Unlucky, and Deep respect Ireland 🙏

[@jonbrons5494]

Well it is all about decisions. In these games you take the 3 points when you can get them. Especially in the early phases. Ireland did not and consequently lost the game. You can take yr chances against Scotland for corner kicks from penalties but any other top teams man , you risk not getting your tries. So bad calls. Nevertheless Ireland was close to winning this . Remains one of the worlds top teams. Congrats to NZ for a awesome defence . Congrats to both for a truly worldclass match 🎉

[@corcaighrebel]

Most definitely ahould have taken the points early on, build your score, settle the team, decision making at times not what it needed to be. Ireland got caught out.

[@seanrota3359]

Ireland are a great side, no doubt about it the results have shown that but sport can be cruel and in a knockout stage all of the previous record counts for nothing. I've been a big fan of the Irish team the way they have played and am sad they could not go on to win a RWC.From New Zealand

[@rogferney]

It was a fantastic game that was won by Jordie Barrett holding up the try.

[@CoolCoyote]

all they spoke about is what n.z have already been through and eventually got their heads around is that you may be the best team for 4years but the rwc is just that its playing the best you can for 4 games straight. McCaw n co had to learn this the hard way, now you do Ireland.

[@roblouw3038]

What I hear from these pundits again is "how good this Irish team is" and how they "deserved" more than a quarter final - you see right there is your problem and your weakness - arrogance without the stripes to even think about deserving anything..where does this "deserving" attitude come from? Wow, i'm actually shocked that these thoughts were even expressed on international TV -

[@Malky24]

Don't talk yourself up even slightly if you're playing them though! They get very touchy about it!

[@sc8717]

There's some sort of misunderstanding here. That isn't said out of arrogance. This Irish team are incredible and saying they deserved more isn't saying they deserved it OVER other teams or at the expense of other teams. Its another way of saying they didn't get to where they had the potential to get to and we would have loved to see them get there because they're great players and great men.

[@roblouw3038]

no misunderstanding here - I listened to these pundits, and others, and read many, many comments by Irish fans over the last two weeks, especially after Ireland beat SA and it was obvious it was going to fall over - again - I even put money on it - and I hate the AB's winning but you see they have the stripes - and the only other team to have the stripes is SA..get Rassie as coach and he will bring your team down to the basement so you can rise up - your winning streak became your noose and overcharged everyone, including the players, with over confidence (arrogance) - Rassie actually plans for defeats so that players remain humble and balanced and hungry - you also learn MORE from defeat and 17 wins in a row does something to the human psyche that is intangible but it's there - best thing for Ireland would have been to lose to SA or for us to have kicked the 11 points and did Rassie plan for that loss...

[@chucktee8088]

Gotta earn it. Nothing is given.

[@_jobrmo]

Don't worry Ireland, as an ABs fan, we've been there and done that, years and years of going through the same thing of heartache, reflecting, etc. your time will come. Flying under the radar helped our boys alot, no noise, no pressure, no expectations, just focus on the game at hand...

[@Joe-og6br]

I completely forgot about that. You won 1987 and then didn't win until 2011.

[@gasparwimb3964]

Argentina reached Finals and semifinals in Football, Rugby, Basketball, Tennis, Field Hockey , Volleyball, Polo and so on. We never complain about draws or luck. We face referees that were thiefs ..and we move on. I think some journalists should do the same . And learn to respect a massive sport nation ... greetings from Paris ..waiting for semis

[@camwells9726]

From a kiwi , there is a bit of dejavu for us listening to this , We lost a lot of world cups where we went in as the number 1 team , The tough part for Irish fans , you will be known as chokers until you shake the tag by winning, We had to do it .

[@maximl8820]

Ireland are definitely NOT chokers. You should be very proud of your team. From NZ supporter

[@chucktee8088]

Quarterfinal kings then???

[@ChuckieMcHaggis]

I'm in NZ and no-one's been throwing around the 'choker' label this time. I think we all know that the best four sides were Ireland, South Africa, France, NZ, and that draw has deprived us of this semi combination.

[@28copland]

It will take O Gara to break this physcee, if he can't forget about it

[@kippsguitar6539]

Small country that plays a form of Australian rules as it's national sport and has to pick foreign players and coaches to compete, that's reality, talking about the final before they qualify and always criticize England for doing the same, they did great for a minor rugby nation but fell short when it matters

[@matthewbull6102]

Both teams exceptional. As a Bok fan it was a privilege to watch both teams.

[@fitfirst4468]

i thought you were a wallabie fan ?

[@TWEQDvideo]

I feel for Ireland. As NZders we know what it's like to be ranked No.1 and favorites only to be knocked out for 24yrs ..... Ireland still No.1 . Respect 🙏

[@neilmontgomery3470]

It was a close match, less than a score in it. It was in the balance right to the end. New Zealand deserved to win but on another day it could have gone differently. World Rugby really screwed up with the draw though.

[@EMMYK1916]

Jordan Barrett was on form, wasn't he? Ah, sure, it's fierce disappointing. I'm just thinking of the lads who've done 3 WC cycles and the same bloody story again. Shame for Johnny Sexton, Connor Murray, and poor ol Bundee was heartbroken. The rebuilding for the nations starts soon. The draw for the WC group stages needs to be somehow fixed, in my opinion. I'm not making excuses, just stating facts. I was delighted for Argentina, I must admit. Good luck to our Southern Hemisphere buddies in New Zealand. Peaking at a great time of the competition.

[@neilmontgomery3470]

Thank you for your kind reply. Absolutely gutted but New Zealand were just a little bit better on the day and deserved it. However. The margins are tiny and will go our way, one day. As you said NZ had to wait 24 years despite being the highest ranked team. It was always going to be difficult to progress with this draw and if New Zealand had been knocked out they would have felt the same.

[@chucktee8088]

Number 1 QF kings indeed

[@TWEQDvideo]

@@neilmontgomery3470 a much harder draw for Ireland indeed. Had Ireland won they would have won the WC

[@AK-wc9rl]

Hard luck Ireland from a kiwi. You guys are real champions and this game could so easily have gone either way.

[@chucktee8088]

Felt Wayne Barnes helped them keep it close.

[@Robbybabes1988]

Champions of what? They were humbled much to the delight of the people they were slagging off. Their big mouthed flank telling Sam Cain he’s a cheap Richie Macaw. Hahaha

[@MrWillt100]

The All Blacks were once called chokers just ask George Gregan aye George, "four more years just four more years" Chokers is a blimming cheeky way of rubbing it in and anyone who calls someone else a choker is a blimmin loser themselves.

[@davidrice5278]

I can’t believe as an Irish supporter looking on tonight I had to listen to that panel belittle an Irish team that played its every being of their bodies and to see Johnny Sexton devastated what do they want

[@kippsguitar6539]

Because they know what they are talking about, welcome to the big stage, Ireland not as good as they say they are, reality

[@tylerscott3078]

hardluck ireland be proud of your lads

[@greatthemba]

What happened to " to be the best you have to beat the best?" Rassie was right, world cup is Ireland's bogeyman. 😅

[@schoolofpiracy]

It’s been the bogeyman in the past due to various injuries, or underwhelming performances, or getting unlucky in the draw. Losing in a clash of two titans will not set us back in future games

[@chucktee8088]

​@schoolofpiracy it will set you back 4 more years haha

[@christokapp597]

Ireland has nothing to be ashamed off, they had an awesome run and beat everyone that crossed their paths - that is a mark of a great team. WC rugby is another beast and there you are only as good as your last 10 min of play. I backed Ireland for the win but also said that you write of the AB's at your own peril. Sadly my impression of the game was that the Irish attack was same old and that Sexton showed his age in the last 20 min. I think there is still a few shocks left in this WC.

[@janniemeyer9951]

Twice early penalties were turned down for corner kicks by Jonny + a conversion missed.

[@simonjeffs75]

And every Ireland fan in the stadium cheered those kicks to the corner!

[@jguillermooliver]

yeah, that was the key of the match.

[@knoll9812]

The only area were I criticise Ireland. Take the easy points. Same against SA

[@phoenixfridge1495]

As an Englishman i think Ireland have been a breath of fresh air The match could have gone either way So fine are the margins Their supporters deserved more but sport has a habit of kicking you in the nuts They will come back next 4 year cycle better than ever My hope is that England play as well and exciting as you did . I would be happy, even if we lose.

[@seanmckillen9090]

Agreed but we will cop it for loosing another quarter final unlucky or MOT🍀👍🏉🤨

[@feijoatree]

Ireland lose one game doesn't mean they're not the number 1 still. The draw was unfortunate and are worthy Finalists. Mad respect for their achievements.

[@PhoenixSunsNZ]

The team that wins the world cup is the best in the world. Ireland can no longer win, so they are not the best team in the world.

[@feijoatree]

@@PhoenixSunsNZ if that were true then the ABs would hold all the RWCs. SA are reigning champions but lost to Ireland. You can be reigning champions and not the best team in the world. Springboks can attest to this.

[@gizmoza]

@@feijoatreewhat does it matter? If you ranked 1, yet can’t win the greatest competition in Rugby?

[@feijoatree]

@@gizmoza it's something the Irish have to go through. NZ have been favourites at all RWCs bar this one and ranked Number 1 for most of them. You have to maintain standards and go to the next step. The game was incredibly close.

[@tevildo45]

You can consistently bottle world cups and pretend you’re no1. When it really matters ireland come up short at the World Cup

[@deanhubbard2846]

The feelings that Ireland and it's fans are going through now are all too familiar to NZ , we've been there, done that, been labelled as chokers etc,etc. Ireland will be better for it in the long run. Extremely hard to come to terms with at the moment, but when you finally win one, it will be so much sweeter. As for the AB's..... we live to play one more....

[@The-0189]

I like how Matt Williams says "we" like his an honorary Irishman. You're a damn wallabie, stop jumping on another countries success.

[@daraorourke5798]

You don't say that about imported players....

[@RQCK0N]

On any given day Ire, RSA, NZ and Fr can beat one another. Play these games next weekend, different result. Very very fine margins and when you assess these QF games perhaps Ireland should have had the scoreboard ticking and Ramos kicked his conversion quicker. All in all, absolutely fantastic rugby and congratulations to NZ and RSA who performed on the nights. Sadly the SF's will be one sided but we will be treated to an epic final but watch out for rogue RSA HIA rest periods!!!!

[@lancejohnson5292]

These pundits saying that Ireland “deserve” better than the QFs if not for the draw is bogus. At the highest level of sport you’re guaranteed nothing

[@Malky24]

Ireland are a superb team but if they truly deserved to be in a semi final then they'd be in one no matter how much Horgan and Kearney moan about it. They aren't and New Zealand are. That's just the way the cookie crumbles.

[@jjboonzaier]

​@@Malky24no one deserves anything, you earn it...

[@cruden10]

Ireland just experienced what its like to be the All Blacks. Your number 1, your the favourite, your the form team, everyone is hunting you and when lose in the world cup with all that expectation it will test your resovle. If you want to be a champion this is what you have to deal with. Much respect to ireland from a NZ fan. Learn and come back strong i love this modern day rivilary

[@Dwb.x]

The Irish have been sooo good and whilst I’m proud of our All Blacks for winning where we played with 14 men for 70 mins and repelled 38 phases at the end, I am sad for the Irish. This deserved to be a semi at least. As should the RSA v France game coming up tomorrow. Congrats on your awesome career Jonny Sexton. You have been a champion rugby player and a champion bloke.

[@Rugby-union-and-league]

I'm not sad at all after listening to them bragging and arrogance

[@NScott45]

gutted for Ireland. I will remember this irish team as one of the all time greatest.

[@alexhiscock3122]

One of the all time greatest they just lost in the quarters again ! World cup is where it counts

[@redhowell7856]

I'm a Saffa - Ireland have been awesome. The problem with what I've seen is that they (and their fans) backed themselves on history and what they haven't learned is that it's not about that. In RWC's it's about what's happening on the day - simple as that. Ireland never had the psyche to handle that. They were their own worst enemy and the hoodoo (and over-confident semi-arrogance by playing full strength squads all the time ) is was what caused their flight home. Andy Farrell is brilliant but he played it wrong in this tournament. Well done AB's - it was more than likely they would do it!!

[@lwazigenu]

Ireland thought they won the RWC after they beat South Africa 🇿🇦 they will learn World Cup is not six nation 😂I’m glad they are out

[@martinkinane4696]

France will kick the shit out of ye

[@willemsteyn7808]

​@lwazigenu yes, rather they realise it was only because SA kicked 1 from 5 and nothing special they did.

[@decekfrokfr3mdx]

It can be perceived as arrogant not to play your full squad as well.

[@geoffnelson6756]

Complete rubbish, Ireland were not over confident or arrogant, the game tonight was won/lost by Jordi Barrett holding up a certain try, fair play to NZ, they ground out a win, even with 2 yellow cards they managed the time well and lost few points, massive effort by Ireland, but not their best performance and that's the reason they lost.

[@stephcarlofc]

🇮🇪 got nothing to be ashamed of. They can hold their heads up high!! Got mad ❤️ and respect for them. They played the best they could. At the end of the day, the AB just found a way to win even with all the aversities against them. They prove why they are the greatest rugby team of all time. The man that 🇦🇷 🇳🇿 SF is gonna be epic!!

[@MobBarley00]

1987: quarter-final exit 1991: quarter-final exit 1995: quarter-final exit 1999: pool stage elimination 2003: quarter-final exit 2007: pool stage elimination 2011: quarter-final exit 2015: quarter-final exit 2019: quarter-final exit 2023: quarter-final exit World No 1…at bottling

[@Moamanly]

Wow, I didn't know they had been 'pooled' twice too.

[@pauly230678]

This is a different situation. A lot of those earlier teams just simply weren't good enough. This one was a bloody good team that got narrowly beaten by another good team. One of the two had to lose.

[@Robbybabes1988]

@@pauly230678all those team were not good enough😂😂😂

[@MobBarley00]

@@pauly230678 the Irish even made an 8 at the start of the game in honor of their 8 quarter final exits.

[@stevenmelling6068]

Amazing team! ,we need more games against Ireland on a regular basis as it will Elevate both teams to another level ! Epic game it deserved to be a final

[@Rugby-union-and-league]

Ireland will not beat NZ with Razor as coach only fozzie made the other sides look good

[@Osprey6m]

Christ they were outplayed man for man. The mouth almighty omanony and sexton were shown up as club players. 2 yellows and a penalty try from the officials wasnt enough help. They never led 1 minute of the game.

[@jaspermalan3640]

The Ireland team has done the Irish nation proud they exit the WC with there heads high, the pressure and the AB team was just better in the moment, if they continue to play there wonderful rugby they will hold the cup in 4 years time

[@chucktee8088]

Highly doubt they win the trophy next world cup. Sexton was their best 10. When he is out the team seems to drop a level.

[@jaspermalan3640]

@chucktee8088 Rugby is a team sports and it takes 15men adding there little brilliance adding up to a winning team, do not depend on 1 person in a team to be the game changer, Ireland has build huge momentum in the last 4 years, it is time to put there heads down and continue to build on all there positives and they will be a team to beat comes 4 years around

[@chucktee8088]

Doubt it Bro. You losing too much class. When the bench came on barely any effect. Good luck on the 4 more years.

[@jaspermalan3640]

@chucktee8088 good point my friend, that is the depth of a team, Ireland can work and build on this, they will be another team altogether

[@rata4878]

Keep talking it up, Keep choking! The build up Ireland commentators were talking was outlandish! Never talk us down, or you get the beat down! Safe flight home ✈️

[@leilyndrawiri1858]

I was thinking the same thing eat some fudging humble pie muddafudgers talk all the smoke and got smoked 😂😂

[@tirahuks1]

💯

[@petrusmare7789]

I felt this panel was way to bullish for Ireland moving in to this quarter-final. Some discretionary opinions would have sufficed before-hand.