Brett Igoe

While it's challenging to directly compare the performance statistics of New Zealand and South Africa, certain intriguing trends could prove significant in tonight’s face-off. The Currency's Rugby World Cup coverage is supported by Interpath Advisory.

Ireland came within inches of reaching its first Rugby World Cup semi-final last weekend. The imminent soul searching by the IRFU will now have to produce a plan to go further next time. The Currency's Rugby World Cup coverage is supported by Interpath Advisory.

Ireland are seeking to go where no other Irish team has gone – into a World Cup semi-final. There is a renewed belief that the team can break through the barrier in a French stadium that has been turned green. The Currency's Rugby World Cup coverage is supported by Interpath Advisory.

Scotland have a record of defying overwhelming odds against them. This weekend sees them take on another challenge, this time with far more confidence than hope. The Currency’s coverage of the Rugby World Cup is supported by Interpath Advisory

As the Boks sought leadership from the traffic lights in the coaching box, Johnny Sexton’s confident authority on the pitch screamed to the world: “This is my team”. The Currency's World Cup coverage is in association with Interpath Advisory.

Matches can hinge on a single decision by the referee. Ahead of Ireland's match with South Africa, Ben O'Keeffe's recent officiating offers intriguing insights. The Currency's Rugby World Cup coverage is in association with Interpath Advisory.

Recent rule changes have allowed Pacific Island players return to their home nations after test match time with other countries. It would be foolish to underestimate them. The Currency's Rugby World Cup coverage is in association with Interpath Advisory.

A study of the 2019 Rugby World Cup unearthed a series of indicators that played pivotal roles during the tournament. How does Ireland compare against those winning metrics? The Currency's Rugby World Cup coverage is in association with Interpath Advisory.

Ireland's journey speaks volumes about their commitment to the game. However, as the pages of history have often demonstrated, it's the synthesis of preparation and in-the-moment adaptation that often dictates success.

Despite Ireland's prowess, the country has yet to win a World Cup knockout game. The weight of this rests heavily on Andy Farrell's shoulders as he now aims to break this cycle.