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In 2007, there probably was no greater shock than Fiji beating Wales in one of the all-time classic World Cup games. A close second was Argentina beating France in the opening game, which though it had precedent, was still a massive surprise.
Georgia almost pulled off the greatest upset win in all of World Cup history against Ireland in Bordeaux.
So in the 2011 edition of the IRB World Cup, what potential shocks are there on the cards? Here are some:
FRANCE vs TONGA
A bit out there I’ll admit, and I don’t see it happening, but given that this game is last in the group for both sides and takes place just after the France-All Blacks game, there is the potential of a very rough ride for France.
I think we all know not to disregard France but with Liévremont at the helm, this team is there for the taking and this Tongan side will be boosted at the World Cup with a few big names who will be either returning or having decided to declare for this tiny kingdom.
ENGLAND vs SCOTLAND/ARGENTINA
The Scots do know the taste of defeating England and so do the Pumas to a lesser extent but both would be underdogs against England who have a very good record in the World Cup. A victory for either side would throw this group on its head.
Scotland showed in the Six Nations match this year at Twickenham that they have the right style of game to challenge England and without the home advantage, maybe Scotland can go that one step further.
SCOTLAND vs GEORGIA
While Scotland do have the means to beat England, I also think they have very serious limitations that the ever improving Lelos can take advantage of. The Georgian pack will really front up to this Scottish pack while the Scottish pack really lack cutting edge in the backs which is where the Georgian weakness is.
If Georgia can keep this game played in the tight, they might pull off what they threatened four years ago.
AUSTRALIA vs IRELAND
While this would be a shock, people should not be surprised considering how close the two teams have been in their last two World Cup encounters especially when Australia had far superior teams.
This is probably shaping up to be the encounter of the pool stages of the World Cup. I won’t talk about this one too much as I have an article up the sleeve about this match.
IRELAND vs ITALY
Ireland have not lost to Italy since they gained entrance to the Six Nations. Yet there have been some incredibly close encounters and with World Cup nerves and the likelihood that cup rugby will take precedence, it will suit the tight game of this Italian side. While Ireland will target the Wallabies game, this will the game Italy shall focus on most intently.
WALES vs FIJI/SAMOA
As already mentioned, Fiji beat Wales in the last World Cup, while Samoa have beaten them in their previous two meeting in the tournament. So does this mean it will even be a shock? Well Wales will still go in as favourites but I do see one of these sides beating them. Samoa will be handicapped by playing Namibia four days prior, but I believe they have the better chance.
Other less likely possibilities:
– Italy beating Australia.
– Wales beating South Africa.
– France beating New Zealand.
– USA beating Italy.
– Namibia beating Samoa/Fiji.
Join The Roar rugby editor Christy Doran, former Wallaby Matt Toomua and a cast of regular and special guests as they look at the biggest issues in the game on The Roar Rugby Podcast. If you’re looking for great odds on the next game check out Aussie bookmaker PlayUp. Chances are you’re about to lose. Set a deposit limit.