Rugby World Cup 2023: Round 2 Predictions

This is officially the biggest-ever Superbru tournament, with over 380,000 people playing, which is some consolation when I see that nearly 70,000 people made better picks than me in Round 1.

The next set of matches look fairly one-sided, which underlines the role of playing our Predictor game - the result of most of these games is not really in doubt, but I’ll be glued to each one with high hopes for a Margin point. The games are all a little easier to pick than last week, so I’m looking forward to collecting my GSP on Sunday.

Here are my Rugby World Cup predictions for Round 2.

France v Uruguay

France looked like potential champions in their win over the All Blacks, and you suspect they still have another gear or two. They shouldn’t need it here though, and this ought to be a comfortable win for the home side even with their second-string selection. France by 48

New Zealand v Namibia

The All Blacks have incredible depth in their squad, and despite all the changes they have made, they will be too strong for Namibia who shipped over 50 points to Italy in Round 1. With players pushing for selection for New Zealand, it could get ugly. New Zealand by 68

Samoa v Chile

Chile gave a reasonable account of themselves against Japan, with the final score not totally reflective of the game. Samoa should be too strong for them however, and it’s likely to be another heavy defeat. Samoa by 33

Wales v Portugal

Wales were somewhat fortunate in their opening win over Fiji, but having come through that stern test, this match should seem significantly easier. Wales by 43

Ireland v Tonga

Ireland were the highest-scoring nation in Round 1 as they put 82 points past Romania, and this is likely to be another one-sided affair. Hopefully a little closer though. Ireland by 46

South Africa v Romania

If there’s one thing you don’t want after shipping over 80 points to Ireland, it’s a match against the Springboks. This will be another drubbing at the hands of the most powerful team in the competition, even without most of their first-choice side and with a scrum-half on the wing. South Africa by 66

Australia v Fiji

This one should be a little closer, and it will be interesting to see if Fiji can bring their frustration to bear on the Wallabies. They were close to beating Wales, losing thanks to a couple of refereeing decisions and a crucial dropped pass, and this is now a knockout match for them. I suspect Australia will edge it, but it should be good to watch. Australia by 6

England v Japan

England should have a bit more confidence after that win over Argentina, and if they can keep 15 men on the field, they should make it two wins from two. England by 18

How do your predictions compare? Let us know in the comments!