Rugby World Cup: Breathtaking Moments in Classic Quarter-Finals
The Rugby World Cup is no stranger to thrilling quarter-final clashes. From jaw-dropping upsets to last-minute nail-biters and memorable thrashings, this stage of the tournament has seen it all. As we eagerly anticipate the 2023 edition, where the top four nations in the world rankings will square off, let’s take a trip down memory lane and relive some unforgettable quarter-finals from past World Cups.
1991: Ireland 18-19 Australia
Ireland’s World Cup journey has always been a tale of unfulfilled potential, never progressing beyond the quarter-finals. In 1991, they had a golden opportunity to change that narrative when they faced the defending champions, Australia, in Dublin. The game featured star moments from Australia’s David Campese and Ireland’s Gordon Hamilton. However, it was Michael Lynagh’s late score that snatched victory for Australia, setting them on the path to their first World Cup triumph.
1995: England 25-22 Australia
In 1995, England and Australia clashed in Cape Town, with the Wallabies defending their title. A thrilling encounter ensued, with tries from Tony Underwood and Damian Smith. The outcome hinged on the precise bootwork of Rob Andrew and Michael Lynagh, both of whom slotted five penalties each. But it was Andrew who had the final say, launching a drop-goal in the last minute to release the Wallabies’ grasp on the trophy. England’s hopes would later be dashed by a certain Jonah Lomu.
1999: South Africa 44-21 England
Drop-goals took center stage in this quarter-final. Jannie de Beer of South Africa was the hero, booting a record five of them from various distances and angles to defeat England at Stade de France. However, South Africa’s journey was cut short by Australia in a dramatic semi-final that went into extra time, preventing them from winning back-to-back titles.
2007: New Zealand 18-20 France
In 2007, host nation France faced the daunting task of challenging the mighty All Blacks after a shock loss to Argentina in the opening game. However, they managed to pull off a sensational victory, thanks to a controversial winning score by Yannick Jauzion. Damien Traille’s audacious offload to Frederic Michalak set the stage for Jauzion’s game-winning try. Though France would later stumble in the semi-finals, this match provided valuable lessons for New Zealand, who would go on to lift the 2011 World Cup in their home country.
2015: Australia 35-34 Scotland
The quarter-final between Australia and Scotland in the 2015 World Cup was nothing short of a rollercoaster. After sending the host nation, England, packing, Australia was the favorite. Yet, it was a back-and-forth contest that seemed to swing in Scotland’s favor when Mark Bennett scored a late interception try. But the drama wasn’t over. Bernard Foley’s last-minute penalty, awarded after a controversial offside call by referee Craig Joubert, secured a nail-biting victory for Australia, a decision later deemed incorrect by World Rugby.
2015: New Zealand 62-13 France
In the same tournament, New Zealand avenged their 2007 quarter-final loss to France with a stunning performance. They dismantled France in a quarter-final clash in Cardiff, featuring tries that showcased their sheer brilliance. Winger Nehe Milner-Skudder displayed nimble footwork, and Julian Savea notched a memorable hat-trick. This victory exorcised the ghosts of 2007 for the All Blacks and set them on the path to becoming the first team to retain the Rugby World Cup.
These quarter-final classics are a testament to the drama and excitement that the Rugby World Cup consistently delivers. As we gear up for the 2023 edition, it’s safe to say that the tradition of unforgettable moments in the quarter-finals is set to continue.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Rugby World Cup quarter-finals
What are some memorable moments from past Rugby World Cup quarter-finals?
In the history of the Rugby World Cup quarter-finals, we’ve witnessed some incredible moments. Here are a few unforgettable instances:
Why is the 1991 Ireland vs. Australia match significant?
The 1991 clash between Ireland and Australia was crucial because it marked Ireland’s chance to break their quarter-final jinx. Although they lost by a single point, this match set the stage for Australia’s first World Cup title.
What happened in the 1995 England vs. Australia quarter-final?
The 1995 quarter-final between England and Australia was an intense showdown where Rob Andrew’s last-minute drop-goal sealed victory for England, ending Australia’s title defense.
How did South Africa beat England in 1999?
In 1999, South Africa’s Jannie de Beer kicked five drop-goals in a single match to defeat England. This remarkable feat propelled South Africa into the semi-finals.
Why is the 2007 New Zealand vs. France quarter-final memorable?
The 2007 quarter-final between New Zealand and France is etched in memory due to France’s stunning upset victory over the All Blacks, eventually leading to New Zealand’s 2011 World Cup win.
What’s the story behind the 2015 Australia vs. Scotland quarter-final?
In 2015, a controversial last-minute penalty awarded to Australia secured their win over Scotland. The decision was later deemed incorrect by World Rugby.
How did New Zealand dominate France in 2015?
In the same year, New Zealand avenged their 2007 quarter-final loss to France with a spectacular performance, winning 62-13 and advancing to become the first team to retain the Rugby World Cup.
More about Rugby World Cup quarter-finals
- Rugby World Cup Official Website
- World Rugby Official Website
- Rugby World Cup 2023
- Ireland’s Rugby History
- Australian Rugby Union
- England Rugby
- South African Rugby
- New Zealand Rugby
- France Rugby
- Scotland Rugby
7 comments
De Beer’s drops in ’99 were legendary, s.africa wow!
’95, Eng vs. Aus – those drop-goals, Andrew nailed it last min epic!
NZ’s domination in ’15, wow, no more French ghosts!
2015 Aus vs. Scotland, the controversial call, a real thriller!
Epic matches down memory lane! remember Aus vs. Ireland ’91, such thrill, wow!
Missed the tech angle in this one! Where’s the data, stats?
France beating NZ in ’07, major surprise, set the stage for 2011!