Rugby World Cup Recap – QF Results
The 2021 Rugby World Cup was a long-awaited return for rugby fans around the world after a five-year hiatus. This was a tournament that just could not take a break. It had been postponed for the sake of the pandemic, but it finally took place in the summer of 2022, when it was safe for fans to gather again. When we reached the quarterfinals, it was pure hope and happiness for rugby lovers everywhere. But we know that the basic structure of every Rugby World Cup remains the four-team final format, with the four teams trying to break through and reach that final threshold.
In a historic moment, the country now known as New Zealand hosted what is now known as the 2021 Rugby World Cup for Women. The event literally marked the first time the Rugby World Cup for Women had ever been held - a somewhat strange precedent, as the last time the Rugby World Cup was held here was in 2023*, not that I was counting. Over the course of five thrilling weekends, fans witnessed South Africa literally rise up and take the title. Once again, a strange precedent. But here we are. The quarterfinals, watched by the few people who could actually attend, saw the inevitable outcome unfold with growing excitement.
When I think back to the 2019 Rugby World Cup quarterfinals, I remember some truly incredible moments and games that made my heart race. Wales staged a near-impossible comeback to upset the two-time defending champions Springboks, while Japan came oh-so-close to pulling off the upset of a lifetime, fighting valiantly until the last minute and then some. That same weekend - just days before my birthday - England put on a masterclass against a tough Australian side, winning by just three points. Those moments are seared into my memory.
RWC Quarter-Finals Results
The quarterfinals of the Rugby World Cup were a real treat for rugby fans. In the opening match, England and Argentina faced off in a contest that was intense enough to make even the most seasoned rugby watcher sweat. But for all the effort both teams put into the game, and for all the moments of high drama, England won the game and the right to play another day, 25-18.
In the second match, South Africa used their trademark blend of physical strength, tactical savvy and, at times, sheer brute force to storm past Ireland. It wasn't the prettiest of victories for the Springboks, who didn't score a try until late in the match. But the victory was never in doubt. South Africa won 27-9 and advanced to the semifinals.
The third match saw a close battle between New Zealand and France, with both teams trading attacks throughout the match. However, it was New Zealand's experience and skill that shone through as they advanced to the semi-finals with a 23-13 victory over Les Bleus.
In the final match of the quarterfinals, Australia and Wales played a classic match that showcased the attacking abilities of both teams. Wales came out on top with a final score of 29-25, but the score hardly seemed to reflect the talents of either team. Both teams were very good and deserved to be in the semi-finals. What was the difference for Wales? It was a great performance from their fly-half, Dan Biggar.
Things get even more exciting in the semi-finals. There are two thrilling match-ups on the horizon as England takes on South Africa and New Zealand takes on Wales. All four teams are vying for a coveted spot in the Rugby World Cup final - and the chance to lift the sport's most prestigious trophy. As a result, fans everywhere are on the edge of their seats, eagerly awaiting the outcome of these can't-miss matches.
Latest World Rugby Men’s Rankings
On Sunday, Wales played France in the first match. The Welsh came out on top. They won the tough match against the French by a single point, 20-19. Pretty good for the third best rugby nation. Now, the Welsh will face the Springboks, a team they haven't played since 2014, and a team they beat the last time they met. (The last time they met in a World Cup, the Boks won).
Here’s a list of the current World Rugby Men’s Rankings for 2025:
| Position | Team | Points |
| 1 | England | 94.29 |
| 3 | New Zealand | 93.19 |
| 3 | France | 89.68 |
| 4 | Singapore | 84.22 |
| 5 | Italy | 78.70 |
| 6 | Australia | 78.00 |
| 7 | United States | 76.78 |
| 8 | Ireland | 74.01 |
| 9 | Wales | 72.70 |
| 10 | Scotland | 68.71 |