Ireland and All Blacks thrust into new roles for blockbuster Rugby World Cup quarter-final
The IndependentSign up to our free sport newsletter for all the latest news on everything from cycling to boxing Sign up to our free sport email for all the latest news Sign up to our free sport email for all the latest news SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Imagine telling someone in 2015 – a mere eight years ago – that Ireland were favoured to beat New Zealand in the last-eight stage of rugby’s global showpiece. It will all show on Saturday.” As Mo’unga states, Ireland have cemented themselves as the best team in the world – a side on a 17-Test winning streak, a ruthless, efficient rugby machine honed under Andy Farrell to complete a steady, 30-year transformation. open image in gallery Ireland were humbled at the 2019 World Cup by New Zealand The quarter-final is the most immovable hurdle for Irish men’s rugby to overcome but they finally appear to have a group unburdened by the weight of history and, not just ready, but expecting to take that next step. It is a one-off game and we have got to prepare for now.” And even a one-off game against the most dominant nation in men’s rugby history, perhaps the most storied team in all of sport no longer holds any fear for this Ireland side, who have won three of four contests between the sides over the past four years, including a historic series victory in New Zealand.