The Rugby World Cup is reaching its crucial stage as the final pool matches kick off in France. With only England and Wales securing their spots in the quarter-finals, six places are still up for grabs, leading to intense competition among the teams.
Tiebreakers will come into play, with head-to-head records being considered for teams with the same number of points, followed by points difference. In Pool A, New Zealand is favored to advance on points difference if the top three teams finish level. However, Italy has a chance to advance past France on head-to-head if they can secure a victory against them.
In Pool B, the stakes are high as Scotland has the opportunity to knock out defending champions South Africa. If they manage to beat Ireland by 21 points or more with a bonus-point, they will advance alongside Ireland. Meanwhile, Pool C sees Wales already qualified and likely to top the pool even with a defeat against Georgia if they secure a bonus point. Fiji only needs one point against Portugal to finish second and eliminate Australia from the competition.
Pool D presents an intense showdown between Argentina and Japan for second place, as England has already claimed the top spot. Argentina currently has a superior points difference, but Japan has a chance to advance if they secure a bonus point for four tries in a draw and Argentina fails to do the same. Additionally, Samoa still has a slim chance of advancing.
Throughout the pool stage matches, teams have fiercely contended for crucial wins and bonus points to secure their spot in the quarter-finals. The level of competition has been outstanding, with teams leaving no stones unturned to prove their worth.
As the tournament progresses into the knockout rounds, the intensity is expected to reach new heights. The remaining teams will battle it out for a chance to lift the Rugby World Cup trophy and etch their names in history as the ultimate champions. The stakes are higher than ever, and fans can expect thrilling matches as these teams give their all on the field.
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