The Rugby World Cup 2023 in France has been nothing short of sensational, and the fourth week of the tournament didn’t disappoint. From unexpected plays to emotional victories, here are seven standout moments that have kept fans on the edge of their seats.
1. The Shoulder Touch Magic
In a sport known for its physicality, sometimes it’s the unexpected moves that steal the show. Canan Moodie’s try for South Africa against Tonga was a moment of sheer brilliance. When a pass ricocheted off Vincent Koch’s shoulder, it caught everyone by surprise, including the Tonga defense. Moodie seized the opportunity, scooped up the loose ball, and sprinted over the line for a memorable try. Tonga may have felt hard done by, expecting a knock-on call, but Moodie’s quick thinking sealed the deal in a 49-18 victory for the Springboks.
2. Eddie Jones: The Pantomime Villain
Australia’s campaign in this World Cup has been far from their previous glory, but they managed to secure a crucial win against Portugal. However, what stole the spotlight was the reaction to head coach Eddie Jones. As the camera focused on him, it was met with a chorus of boos and jeers from the crowd. Jones has become the “pantomime villain” of the tournament, and with Fiji lurking as potential eliminators, the drama is far from over.
3. Scotland’s Rampant Victory
Scotland put on a dazzling display against Romania, recording their third-largest victory in history with an 84-0 thrashing. Darcy Graham was the star of the show, scoring a remarkable hat-trick in the first half and adding a fourth try later on. With 24 tries in 38 international matches, he’s inching closer to becoming Scotland’s all-time leading scorer, currently held by Stuart Hogg. Scotland’s win sets up a thrilling quarter-final showdown with Ireland, promising more fireworks to come.
4. Romania’s Drought Continues
While Scotland celebrated, Romania’s struggle for points continued. Since scoring early against Ireland, they’ve been unable to find the scoreboard. Their 82-8 defeat against Ireland and a 76-0 loss to South Africa highlighted their offensive woes. As they prepare to face Tonga in their final pool match, Romania is hoping to break their goal-scoring drought, which has stretched over three and a half hours of rugby.
5. Argentina and Japan’s Decisive Clash
In Pool D, it’s down to the wire for Argentina and Japan. They’ll face off in a winner-takes-all match after the Pumas crushed Chile. With England already securing the top spot in the group, all eyes are on this showdown. It’s a historic moment as the first-ever South American clash at a Rugby World Cup, and both teams are eager to make their mark.
6. New Zealand’s Ruthless Statement
New Zealand, the three-time champions, sent a clear message with a dominant 96-17 victory over Italy. This resounding win silenced doubts raised by Italy’s coach in the build-up. New Zealand secured their bonus point early, highlighting their prowess. With the quarter-finals in sight, it seems inevitable that the All Blacks will continue their impressive World Cup journey.
7. Uruguay Denies Namibia’s Dream
Uruguay secured their first win of the tournament by denying Namibia their maiden World Cup victory. Despite Namibia’s early 14-0 lead, Uruguay rallied in the second half, winning 36-26. A red card for prop Des Sethie dashed Namibia’s hopes of creating history. It was a heartbreaking loss for Namibia, but they left their mark on the tournament with their spirited performance.
The Rugby World Cup 2023 continues to deliver thrilling moments, and as we head into the knockout stages, the excitement only promises to intensify. Stay tuned for more unforgettable rugby action.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Rugby World Cup 2023
What were the standout moments from week four of the Rugby World Cup 2023?
In week four of the Rugby World Cup 2023, several standout moments captured the attention of fans and enthusiasts.
What was the remarkable play involving Canan Moodie in the South Africa vs. Tonga match?
Canan Moodie’s remarkable play in the South Africa vs. Tonga match involved a unique try. The ball unexpectedly thumped into Vincent Koch’s shoulder, creating an opportunity for Moodie to scoop it up and score, leaving Tonga stunned.
Why did Eddie Jones receive boos and jeers during Australia’s match against Portugal?
Eddie Jones, the head coach of Australia, received boos and jeers during the match against Portugal, earning him the reputation of a “pantomime villain.” This reaction was likely due to Australia’s underwhelming performance in the World Cup and rumors linking Jones to a return to Japan.
How did Scotland perform in their match against Romania?
Scotland put on a spectacular performance against Romania, winning 84-0, making it the third-largest margin of victory in their history. Darcy Graham’s remarkable four tries contributed to this stunning win.
What is the current goal-scoring situation for Romania in the World Cup?
Romania has struggled to score points in the World Cup. After an early try and penalty, they have been unable to score, facing tough defeats against Ireland and South Africa.
What is the significance of the Argentina vs. Japan match in Pool D?
The Argentina vs. Japan match in Pool D is a winner-takes-all showdown. Both teams have a chance to advance to the quarter-finals alongside group winners England, making it a historic South American clash.
How did New Zealand respond in their match against Italy?
New Zealand responded emphatically in their match against Italy, winning 96-17. This victory included securing a bonus point early on and disproving doubts raised by Italy’s coach in the lead-up to the game.
What was the outcome of the Uruguay vs. Namibia match?
Uruguay won the match against Namibia, denying Namibia their first-ever World Cup victory. Despite an early 14-0 lead for Namibia, Uruguay staged a comeback, winning 36-26, with a red card for Namibia’s Des Sethie impacting the outcome.
More about Rugby World Cup 2023
- Rugby World Cup 2023 Official Website
- BBC Sport Rugby
- Eddie Jones – Australia Head Coach
- Scotland Rugby Official Website
- Argentina Rugby Official Website
- New Zealand Rugby Official Website
- Uruguay Rugby Official Website
- Namibia Rugby Official Website
6 comments
wowza! rugby world cup 2023’s week 4 was total chaos, in a good way lol! so many cool moments.
scotland’s rampage, epic stuff! darcy graham’s a legend, and that match was pure entertainment.
new zealand’s monster win, whoa! they shut the doubters up big time, didn’t they? #AllBlacksPower
can’t believe romania ain’t scored in ages, that’s rough. hope they break that dry spell soon!
eddie jones gettin’ booed, huh? haha, tough crowd! but rugby’s all ’bout that drama, mate.
uruguay’s comeback against namibia, so intense! rugby’s full of surprises, love it!