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Pool D is dominated by Six Nation sides, with Ireland and France the two standouts.
On current form they should account for the others, although the French are unpredictable and could easily drop a game to Italy. That could prove a decisive match.
The winner of the group will go on and play Argentina while the loser has to face the All Blacks.
Ireland (2)
They are the form side of the northern hemisphere and have been impressive over the last few seasons. They have accounted for everyone except the All Blacks who they still remain winless against. Their record at World Cups is not flash, however.
Their strengths are everywhere – a strong pack, exciting backs and strong bench – while their weakness remains the All Blacks. It doesn’t matter how well they play they always seem to lose to them.
France (7)
Runners up in 1987, 1999 and 2011; if there is one thing to expect from the French it is the unexpected. The contrast between their best and worst is staggering. Strengths are a strong pack and excellent backline while their weakness is their inconsistency.
They have lost World Cup games they should have won easily and they have produced some outstanding rugby, toppling over the all-conquering All Blacks in 1999 and 2007. They have the skill, all they need is the right attitude on game day to upset anyone.
Italy (15)
From 1 to 10 Italy are a powerful unit but they fall down terribly in the backs and this is where the French and Irish should pick them apart. They do have the game to beat the other two in their group and if the French have an off day then they might sneak into the top two.
Romania (17)
Romania are still developing and are not a real threat to Ireland and France. They may push Italy and their clash with Canada will be a hard fought contest but they’re just making up numbers.
Canada (18)
Another team still developing and they are just here to make up the numbers. Ireland, France and Italy should have their measure but they are half a chance against the Romanians.
This should be a two-horse race between the Irish and French. The last game in their pool is between them and they will go into that game knowing what is at stake. Both teams will probably be on three wins and the victor will get a quarter-final against Argentina and the loser will face the All Blacks.
The Irish will be hoping to avoid the All Blacks and ironically the French play better in this tournament against the All Blacks than Argentina. On form the Irish do look like the group winner and I think we might be looking at an All Blacks-France quarter-final again. Italy should be good enough to finish third and Romania has a good recent record over Canada and looks good for fourth.
Table
Ireland – four wins
France – three wins
Italy – two wins
Romania – one win
Canada – 0 win
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