The Rugby World Cup is the biggest and most prestigious event in the rugby union calendar. It brings together the best teams and players from around the world to compete for the ultimate prize: the Webb-Ellis Cup. The next edition of the tournament will take place in France from September 8 through October 28, 2023, marking the second time that France will host the event after 2007.

Some of the most memorable matches of the Rugby World Cup

Since its inception in 1987, the tournament has produced some of the most thrilling and unforgettable matches in rugby history. Here are some of them:

Wales 13, vs. Western Samoa 16, Group Stage, 1991: The first true shock to occur in the Rugby World Cup, this match saw for the first time a seeded team beaten by a non-seeded team. Western Samoa, a tiny island nation with a population of less than 200,000, stunned Wales at Cardiff Arms Park with their physicality and flair. The Samoans scored two tries through To'o Vaega and Sila Vaifale, while Wales could only manage one through Ieuan Evans. The result sent shockwaves around the rugby world and eliminated Wales from their home tournament.

England 29, New Zealand 45, Semi-Final, 1995: In the match that saw the man mountain of Jonah Lomu run rings around England, New Zealand won easily to progress to their second final. Lomu scored four tries in a devastating display of power and pace that left England's defense helpless. His first try was particularly memorable, as he brushed off several tacklers before trampling over Mike Catt on his way to the line. England fought back with tries from Will Carling and Rory Underwood, but New Zealand was too strong and sealed their victory with a late try by Zinzan Brooke.

South Africa 15 vs. New Zealand 12 (AET), Final, 1995: The final that transcended rugby and became a symbol of national unity for South Africa after decades of apartheid. South Africa hosted their first World Cup just one year after Nelson Mandela became president and used rugby as a tool to bring together a divided nation. Mandela famously wore a Springbok jersey with Captain Francois Pienaar's number six on it when he presented him with the trophy after South Africa's narrow win over New Zealand in extra-time. The match itself was tense and tight throughout, with neither side able to score a try. Joel Stransky kicked all South Africa's points, including a drop-goal in extra time that proved decisive.

Japan 34 vs. South Africa 32, Group Stage, 2015: In the biggest upset in Rugby World Cup history, and arguably one of the greatest sporting shocks ever, Japan stunned two-time champions South Africa with an incredible display of courage and skill at Brighton's Amex Stadium. Japan trailed by three points with time on the clock but refused to kick for a goal and instead opted to go for the win.

After several phases of relentless pressure, they finally found space out wide for Karne Hesketh to dive over in the corner and spark wild celebrations among Japan's players, coaches, and fans. The result marked Japan's first-ever win over South Africa and their first World Cup victory since 1991.

Can South Africa defend their title?

South Africa is the reigning champion, having defeated England 32-12 in the final of the 2019 Rugby World Cup in Japan. The Springboks became the first team to win three Rugby World Cups, matching New Zealand's record. They also became the first team to win both the Rugby Championship and the Rugby World Cup in the same year.

However, South Africa has had a disrupted build-up to their title defense, as they were forced to withdraw from the 2020 Rugby Championship due to COVID-19 restrictions. They also had a controversial series against the British and Irish Lions in 2021, which they won 2-1 amid accusations of foul play and refereeing bias.

South Africa will face Ireland, Scotland, Asia/Pacific 1, and Europe 2 in Pool B of the 2023 Rugby World Cup. They will be confident of topping their group and advancing to the knockout stages, but they will face tough competition from other contenders such as New Zealand, England, and France.

Will France shine on home soil?

France has never won a Rugby World Cup, despite reaching three finals (1987, 1999, and 2011). They have also been inconsistent in recent years, finishing third or fourth in six of their last seven Six Nations campaigns. However, there are signs that France is on the rise under head coach Fabien Galthié, who took over after a disappointing quarterfinal exit at the 2019 Rugby World Cup.

France has a talented young squad that has shown flair and resilience in recent matches. They beat England twice in 2020 (once in extra time), drew with Australia twice in 2021 (once with a depleted team), and narrowly lost to New Zealand twice in November (once with a controversial red card). They also won their first Six Nations title since 2010 after beating Wales on points difference. They will hope to use their home advantage and passionate support to inspire them to glory.

How will England bounce back from disappointment?

England was runners-up at both of the last two Rugby World Cups, losing to New Zealand in 2015 and South Africa in 2019. They were also dominant in the Six Nations, winning three titles in four years between 2016 and 2020. However, they suffered a setback in 2021, finishing fifth in the Six Nations after losing three matches, including a record defeat by Scotland at Twickenham. 

England has been criticized for being too conservative and predictable under head coach Eddie Jones. England has vowed to rebuild the team with more speed, skill, and creativity ahead of the 2023 Rugby World Cup, but they will need to improve their form and confidence if they want to challenge for the trophy.

Are you ready for the biggest rugby event of the year? The 2023 Rugby World Cup is coming to France, and you don't want to miss it! Witness the best teams in the world compete for glory in nine stunning venues across the country. From the opening match between France and New Zealand at the Stade de France to the thrilling final on October 28th, you will experience rugby like never before. Don't wait any longer, get your tickets now and join millions of fans for this unforgettable celebration of sport and culture!