The relationship between Irish sporting national teams and World Cups has always been a peculiar one. Traditionally, we've been content with just qualifying, with any progress beyond the group stages considered a delightful bonus. Yet, this Friday, a young Irish team is set to redefine this narrative as they take on France in the U20 World Cup final at Athlone Sports Stadium. A moment of reckoning awaits a chance to write a new chapter in Ireland's sporting history.
In the past (& present), Ireland has produced world champions across a variety of individual sports while always punching above our weight. Rowing, boxing, and athletics have been adorned with Irish world class talents like Paul O'Donovan, Fintan McCarthy, Steve Collins, Sonia O'Sullivan and Rhys McClenaghan leading the world in gymnastics. An Irishman even has won a cricket World Cup medal, albeit earned while playing for England! But this Friday, the focus shifts to a team sport, and a group of Irish lads are ready to shoulder the weight of national expectations.
This isn't Ireland's first rodeo in a World Cup final at this age grade. We've been here twice before - against New Zealand in 2004 and England in 2016. But the outcomes of those encounters have been neatly tucked away in the annals of history. (The Ireland U19s - lead by Brian O'Driscoll - did win the 1998 FIRA World Youths Championship in France.) This year's U20 side - who are sponsored by PwC - has been nothing short of phenomenal, claiming a Grand Slam victory and edging past France 33-31 earlier in the year.
The Richie Murphy factor
One factor that sets this team apart is the tactical genius of Coach Richie Murphy. He has demonstrated an uncanny ability to adapt and mould his strategies based on the opposition. Whether it's adjusting to the challenging South African
weather conditions and pitch standards, or handling multiple suspensions, Murphy's leadership has been instrumental.
Another great Kick Pass by Sam Prendergast to James Nicholson for first try. #IREvRSA #WorldRugbyU20s
pic.twitter.com/pIQwBSSFbB— Brett Igoe (@brettruganalyst) July 9, 2023
𝐍𝐈𝐂𝐇𝐎𝐋𝐒𝐎𝐍 𝐒𝐓𝐑𝐈𝐊𝐄𝐒 𝐀𝐆𝐀𝐈𝐍! 🟢
It's almost a carbon copy of the first try! Prendergast to Nicholson after some great pressure from the Irish forwards forces a free play for Ireland!
☘️ 21-7 🇿🇦#WorldRugbyU20s pic.twitter.com/LhmIu3gYdg— Virgin Media Sport (@VMSportIE) July 9, 2023
The road to the final hasn't been smooth. The team has endured setbacks, including the tragic loss of squad player Jack Oliver's father, Greig Oliver, just days before the final pool game against Fiji. Yet, each challenge has only strengthened their resolve. Their journey, marked by a draw against England and emphatic victories over Australia and Fiji, has been awe-inspiring.
Munster No.8 Brian Gleeson has been particularly exceptional, making significant contributions and scoring crucial tries. Sam Prendergast's extraordinary kicking skills have also been a game-changer, with two exceptional kick passes to James Nicholson for well-taken tries.
WHAT. A. TRY 🍀
Pure, unadulterated power from the beast that is Brian Gleeson 🔥
Ireland 14 - 7 South Africa@PwCIreland #futureisgreenpic.twitter.com/pZ7ulP3nvr— Balls.ie (@ballsdotie) July 9, 2023
Good thinking in Ireland 20's 1st try v Italy. Italy expecting the maul. Some power by Brian Gleeson to take 3 Italian Defenders over the line with him. #ITAvIRE #U6N20 pic.twitter.com/5EcXBRmEG5
— Brett Igoe (@brettruganalyst) March 1, 2023
The final against France is expected to be a thrilling showdown. With the World Cup cancellations in 2020, 2021, and 2022 due to the pandemic, France is now aiming for a hat trick of titles following their victories in 2018 and 2019. Their team is bursting with players who have already proven their mettle in the Top14 and ProD2 in France. The French U20 squad, with its impressive pool of talent, has already two squad players from the Six Nations in Monaco training with the senior team for a home World Cup in September.
☘⚡🇫🇷 𝐋𝐀 𝐕𝐎𝐈𝐋𝐀 !
😍 L'équipe de #FranceU20 qui affrontera l'Irlande en finale des Championnats du Monde !
📺 Le match est à suivre vendredi en direct sur @lachainelequipe.
#NeFaisonsXV #IRLFRA #WorldRugbyU20s pic.twitter.com/ia336mMijR— France Rugby (@FranceRugby) July 12, 2023
France faced a stiff challenge against England in the Semi-final, falling behind 17-0 in the early stages. But they bounced back, largely thanks to the brilliance of their back-row duo - Nouchi and No.8 Gazzotti. Ireland will have to prepare for
the 18-year-old powerhouse Tuilagi, who has been a significant force for France. I’d expect Ireland will go after the defence frailties of Attisogbe on the wing and Costes in the centre. Both have shown some vulnerabilities over the tournament.
Some player Marko Gazzotti is and going to be… #WorldCupU20s pic.twitter.com/g7QCZlWdGM
— Brett Igoe (@brettruganalyst) July 9, 2023
A new French star in the making… Posolo Tuilagi with Liam Heagney post-game in Paarl #WorldRugbyU20s #FRAvNZR pic.twitter.com/lkiQbP0fo0
— RugbyPass (@RugbyPass) June 29, 2023
Coach Murphy has made one change to his starting XV from last weekend’s semi-final win over South Africa, with James McNabney returning to the back row and Diarmuid Mangan moving to the second row. This Irish team, led by the exceptional Gus McCarthy, has faced every challenge head-on. The coaching and management team have played a pivotal role in preparing the team, both on and off the field.
Our line up for Friday's World Rugby U20 Championship Final! 🟢#FutureIsGreen | @PwCIreland
— Irish Rugby (@IrishRugby) July 12, 2023
As we look forward to Friday, the hopes and dreams of an entire rugby nation rest on these young shoulders. This group of lads has already navigated numerous tests and rocky roads. Now, they face their final test, and all of Ireland is hoping
that they can etch their names in the annals of sporting greatness.
