Autumn Nations Series Round 2: Fixtures & Teams
The second round of the Autumn Nations Series is upon us, with another weekend of international rugby action set to captivate fans across the globe. From fierce rivalries to emerging forces, this round promises a compelling mix of tests. Let's take a closer look at the fixtures and teams set to take the field this weekend:
Saturday, November 12th
14:00 GMT - Scotland vs Argentina: This clash at Murrayfield is a rematch of their recent Rugby Championship encounter, where Argentina emerged victorious. Scotland, with their home advantage, will be eager for revenge.
16:30 GMT - Italy vs Australia: Italy hosts Australia at the Stadio Olimpico, looking to build on their impressive performance against South Africa in Round 1. The Wallabies will be aiming for a return to winning ways after their narrow loss to France.
19:30 GMT - France vs New Zealand: The highlight of the weekend, this encounter at Stade de France pits the world's number one team against the reigning Rugby World Cup champions. France, fresh off a hard-fought win against Australia, will be eager to prove their dominance against the All Blacks.
Sunday, November 13th
14:00 GMT - Wales vs Georgia: Wales seeks to bounce back from their opening round defeat to Australia, while Georgia will aim to build on their strong performance against Fiji. Expect a physical and hard-fought encounter in Cardiff.
16:00 GMT - England vs Japan: England hosts Japan at Twickenham, looking to maintain their winning start to the series. Japan, on the other hand, will be aiming for a surprise upset after their narrow loss to Argentina in Round 1.
16:30 GMT - Ireland vs South Africa: The final match of Round 2 sees Ireland take on South Africa at the Aviva Stadium. This match promises to be a brutal and physical encounter, with both sides boasting powerful and experienced squads.
Key Points to Watch
- Scotland's Home Advantage: Scotland will be looking to capitalize on the home advantage against Argentina, hoping to turn the tide from their recent loss.
- Italy's Momentum: Italy's impressive performance against South Africa has given them valuable momentum heading into their match against Australia.
- France's Title Defense: France will be looking to build on their strong start and solidify their position as the world's number one team against the All Blacks.
- Wales' Bounceback: Wales needs to rebound from their opening round loss to Australia, and a win against Georgia would be crucial for their confidence.
- Japan's Upset Potential: Japan showed their potential in their narrow loss to Argentina, and they will be looking to cause another upset against England.
- Ireland's Dominance: Ireland will be aiming for a strong performance against South Africa, hoping to maintain their impressive form and continue their rise in world rankings.
The Autumn Nations Series is shaping up to be a thrilling spectacle, with a blend of established giants and emerging forces vying for supremacy. With so much at stake and the possibility of upsets looming, fans are in for an exciting weekend of international rugby.