Hosts France won the first match of their 2023 Rugby World Cup campaign, beating New Zealand in the opener, whilst England, Ireland and Australia also began with victories.

France 27-13 New Zealand

Ill-discipline and the boot of Thomas Ramos helped France get the party started in the Stade de France as they beat New Zealand, one of the favourites for the title.

Italy 52-8 Namibia

Italy scored seven tries in a dominant victory over Namibia on Saturday. They are currently top of Pool A with five points, however, they will have their work cut out trying to progress from a group that contains France and New Zealand.

Ireland 82-8 Romania

Ireland ran riot against Romania. They scored an impressive 12 tries in a victory that sees them get their campaign off to the perfect start. They are in the so-called ‘pool of death’ that includes South Africa and Scotland.

Australia 35-15 Georgia

Australia made light work of Georgia, quickly racing into a 21-3 lead by half-time. They will face sterner tests in a group that includes Fiji and Wales.

England 27-10 Argentina

Despite a Tom Curry red card in the third minute, England miraculously prevailed against Argentina at the Vélodrome in Marseille. George Ford for the protagonist in an extraordinary, scoring all 27 of England’s points with his boot.

Japan 42-12 Chile

Debutants Chile couldn’t contain Japan, the hosts of the last Rugby World Cup. Japan scored six tries on their way to a comfortable victory, earning them a perhaps crucial bonus point.

South Africa 18-3 Scotland

South Africa came out on top in one of the crucial contests in this “Pool of Death.” The reigning champions were impressive and looked in control, capable of finding another gear when needed. Scotland manager Gregory Townsend said he was left “really disappointed” by the defeat, which saw his side kick off their campaign on a negative note.

Wales 32-26 Fiji

Fiji are one the teams that could cause an upset at this World Cup, however, despite a late surge, they couldn’t beat Wales. In a tight match, Wales made a break early in the second half, but Fiji came charging back, registering two late tries and fumbling a golden opportunity in the final second to potentially grasp victory from the jaws of defeat.

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Photo by Fanny Schertzer