Rugby World Cup 2019 preview: Rating all 20 nations' chances

  • The iconic rugby union team, the New Zealand All Blacks have won the Rugby World Cup a record three times, including the two previous editions in 2011 and 2015. Even non-rugby fans will be familiar with their spine-tinging <em>haka</em>, which they perform prior to every international match. Can they make it three titles in a row? (PHOTO: Reuters/Stefan Wermuth)
    1/21

    Who will lift the Rugby World Cup come 2 November?

    The iconic rugby union team, the New Zealand All Blacks have won the Rugby World Cup a record three times, including the two previous editions in 2011 and 2015. Even non-rugby fans will be familiar with their spine-tinging haka, which they perform prior to every international match. Can they make it three titles in a row? (PHOTO: Reuters/Stefan Wermuth)
    Stefan Wermuth / Reuters
  • While Namibia have qualified for every Rugby World Cup edition since 1999, they have not won a single match at the tournament. Being drawn into a tough opening pool, the African nation's best hope of finally breaking their duck will be against Canada in their final pool match on 13 October. Captain Johan Deysel (left, red jersey) is the key player, who scored a memorable try against New Zealand in the 2015 Cup. (PHOTO: Mark Runnacles/Getty Images)
    2/21

    #20: Namibia (Pool B)

    While Namibia have qualified for every Rugby World Cup edition since 1999, they have not won a single match at the tournament. Being drawn into a tough opening pool, the African nation's best hope of finally breaking their duck will be against Canada in their final pool match on 13 October. Captain Johan Deysel (left, red jersey) is the key player, who scored a memorable try against New Zealand in the 2015 Cup. (PHOTO: Mark Runnacles/Getty Images)
    Mark Runnacles via Getty Images
  • The last team to qualify for the Rugby World Cup after winning the Repechage tournament in November 2018, Canada face a tough challenge to advance out of the pool stage – a feat they last achieved in 1991. Success is likely to be measured by whether they can beat fellow minnows Namibia. They are likely to be captained by Tyler Ardron (left, red jersey with ball), who is undoubtedly their most talented and versatile player, capable of covering the second and back row positions. (PHOTO: Charlie Crowhurst/World Rugby via Getty Images)
    3/21

    #19: Canada (Pool B)

    The last team to qualify for the Rugby World Cup after winning the Repechage tournament in November 2018, Canada face a tough challenge to advance out of the pool stage – a feat they last achieved in 1991. Success is likely to be measured by whether they can beat fellow minnows Namibia. They are likely to be captained by Tyler Ardron (left, red jersey with ball), who is undoubtedly their most talented and versatile player, capable of covering the second and back row positions. (PHOTO: Charlie Crowhurst/World Rugby via Getty Images)
    Charlie Crowhurst - World Rugby via Getty Images
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  • Russia have qualified only once before this year's World Cup, and lost all their matches at the 2011 tournament in New Zealand. They made this year's World Cup under unusual circumstances, after Romania were docked points in the qualifiers for repeatedly using ineligible players. Experienced fly-half Yuri Kushnarev (left) will have the burden of scoring the points for the side. (PHOTO: Reuters/Anthony Phelps)
    4/21

    #18: Russia (Pool A)

    Russia have qualified only once before this year's World Cup, and lost all their matches at the 2011 tournament in New Zealand. They made this year's World Cup under unusual circumstances, after Romania were docked points in the qualifiers for repeatedly using ineligible players. Experienced fly-half Yuri Kushnarev (left) will have the burden of scoring the points for the side. (PHOTO: Reuters/Anthony Phelps)
    Anthony Phelps / Reuters
  • This is the fourth time Uruguay have qualified for the Rugby World Cup, but they will be eager to improve on their performance in 2015, when they lost all their pool matches. With an experienced and cohesive unit, Uruguay will look to talented fly-half Juan Manuel Cat (left) to create attacking opportunities. (PHOTO: Oliver McVeigh/Sportsfile via Getty Images)
    5/21

    #17: Uruguay (Pool D)

    This is the fourth time Uruguay have qualified for the Rugby World Cup, but they will be eager to improve on their performance in 2015, when they lost all their pool matches. With an experienced and cohesive unit, Uruguay will look to talented fly-half Juan Manuel Cat (left) to create attacking opportunities. (PHOTO: Oliver McVeigh/Sportsfile via Getty Images)
    Oliver McVeigh via Getty Images
  • Samoa were the original giant-killers of the Rugby World Cup, shocking the likes of Wales (twice), Italy and Argentina in the 1990s. Since then, they have not progressed out of the pool stages but their unpredictability makes them fun to watch at the tournament. Loose forward Chris Vui (left, blue jersey) is one of the youngest international captains, and his experience in the English Premiership will serve him well during the Cup. (PHOTO: Miguel Medina/AFP/Getty Images)
    6/21

    #16: Samoa (Pool A)

    Samoa were the original giant-killers of the Rugby World Cup, shocking the likes of Wales (twice), Italy and Argentina in the 1990s. Since then, they have not progressed out of the pool stages but their unpredictability makes them fun to watch at the tournament. Loose forward Chris Vui (left, blue jersey) is one of the youngest international captains, and his experience in the English Premiership will serve him well during the Cup. (PHOTO: Miguel Medina/AFP/Getty Images)
    MIGUEL MEDINA via Getty Images
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  • Tonga recorded their best Rugby World Cup results in 2011, when they beat France in a stunning upset. Guess what? The two sides will meet again in Pool D on 6 October. The Tongans will hope for a repeat to boost their chances of advancing out of the pool. Scrum-half Sonatane Takulua (left) will assume playmaking duties to lead Tonga's strong forward line, as well as kicking duties for vital points for his team. (PHOTO: Action Images/Adam Holt Livepic/Reuters)
    7/21

    #15: Tonga (Pool D)

    Tonga recorded their best Rugby World Cup results in 2011, when they beat France in a stunning upset. Guess what? The two sides will meet again in Pool D on 6 October. The Tongans will hope for a repeat to boost their chances of advancing out of the pool. Scrum-half Sonatane Takulua (left) will assume playmaking duties to lead Tonga's strong forward line, as well as kicking duties for vital points for his team. (PHOTO: Action Images/Adam Holt Livepic/Reuters)
    AI Project / Reuters
  • The US will be seeking to land a major upset for the first time at the Rugby World Cup, but they have traditionally struggled against the stronger outfits. They will be hoping things improve after the launch of their professional Major League Rugby two years ago. Veteran hooker Joe Taufete'e (left) will be key in leading the forward line. (PHOTO: Seb Daly/Sportsfile via Getty Images)
    8/21

    #14: United States (Pool C)

    The US will be seeking to land a major upset for the first time at the Rugby World Cup, but they have traditionally struggled against the stronger outfits. They will be hoping things improve after the launch of their professional Major League Rugby two years ago. Veteran hooker Joe Taufete'e (left) will be key in leading the forward line. (PHOTO: Seb Daly/Sportsfile via Getty Images)
    Seb Daly via Getty Images
  • It has been eight World Cup editions, but while Italy have qualified for every one of them, they have yet to reach the quarter-finals. In a tough pool which includes New Zealand and South Africa, the Italians will find it tough to advance again. Their veterans are still around, especially the back-row led by Sergio Parisse (left), and will provide much-needed experience and composure to Italy's campaign. (PHOTO: Reuters/Russell Cheyne)
    9/21

    #13: Italy (Pool B)

    It has been eight World Cup editions, but while Italy have qualified for every one of them, they have yet to reach the quarter-finals. In a tough pool which includes New Zealand and South Africa, the Italians will find it tough to advance again. Their veterans are still around, especially the back-row led by Sergio Parisse (left), and will provide much-needed experience and composure to Italy's campaign. (PHOTO: Reuters/Russell Cheyne)
    Russell Cheyne / Reuters
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  • Georgia have made steady progress as a rugby nation in the past decade, and head to Japan for their fifth World Cup. Their typically robust front row will be complemented by young talents in the halves and backs, and their Pool D clash against Fiji will be a fascinating encounter. Veteran flanker/No. 8 Mamuka Gorgodze (left) – nicknamed Gorgodzilla – was one of the standout players at the last World Cup, and has been enticed out of retirement for one last hurrah. (PHOTO: Reuters/David Mdzinarishvili)
    10/21

    #12: Georgia (Pool D)

    Georgia have made steady progress as a rugby nation in the past decade, and head to Japan for their fifth World Cup. Their typically robust front row will be complemented by young talents in the halves and backs, and their Pool D clash against Fiji will be a fascinating encounter. Veteran flanker/No. 8 Mamuka Gorgodze (left) – nicknamed Gorgodzilla – was one of the standout players at the last World Cup, and has been enticed out of retirement for one last hurrah. (PHOTO: Reuters/David Mdzinarishvili)
    David Mdzinarishvili / Reuters
  • Perennial dark horses, Argentina finished third in the 2007 World Cup, the highest-ever finished from a team from the Americas. A strong yet skilful side, they will be relying on players from the Jaguares side which qualified for the final of the Super Rugby tournament this year. Fly-half Nicolas Sanchez (left) is the Pumas' record points scorer, and will be key in getting the points as Argentina gun for a memorable World Cup. (PHOTO: Reuters/Rogan Ward)
    11/21

    #11: Argentina (Pool C)

    Perennial dark horses, Argentina finished third in the 2007 World Cup, the highest-ever finished from a team from the Americas. A strong yet skilful side, they will be relying on players from the Jaguares side which qualified for the final of the Super Rugby tournament this year. Fly-half Nicolas Sanchez (left) is the Pumas' record points scorer, and will be key in getting the points as Argentina gun for a memorable World Cup. (PHOTO: Reuters/Rogan Ward)
    Rogan Ward / Reuters
  • Japan agonisingly missed the quarter-finals at the 2015 Rugby World Cup, pipped to second place in their pool by Scotland, despite causing the biggest-ever upset in the tournament's history by stunning South Africa 34-32 in their opening match. As hosts, the Pacific Nations Cup champions will be hoping to finally advance out of the pool stage. Pacy wing Kenki Fukuoka (left) will be vital in scoring the tries. (PHOTO: Action Images via Reuters/Andrew Boyers)
    12/21

    #10: Japan (Pool A)

    Japan agonisingly missed the quarter-finals at the 2015 Rugby World Cup, pipped to second place in their pool by Scotland, despite causing the biggest-ever upset in the tournament's history by stunning South Africa 34-32 in their opening match. As hosts, the Pacific Nations Cup champions will be hoping to finally advance out of the pool stage. Pacy wing Kenki Fukuoka (left) will be vital in scoring the tries. (PHOTO: Action Images via Reuters/Andrew Boyers)
    Andrew Boyers / Reuters
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  • Traditionally an awesome attacking force, Fiji's Achilles heel has always been their defence. Yet, under New Zealand coach John McKee, they have improved vastly in their defensive nous and could very well spring a few shock results in their pool, which includes Australia and Wales. With so many explosive players, fly-half Ben Volavola (left, white jersey) will need to be the calm centre of the storm and marshal his side with as few errors as possible. (PHOTO: Action Images via Reuters/Paul Childs)
    13/21

    #9: Fiji (Pool D)

    Traditionally an awesome attacking force, Fiji's Achilles heel has always been their defence. Yet, under New Zealand coach John McKee, they have improved vastly in their defensive nous and could very well spring a few shock results in their pool, which includes Australia and Wales. With so many explosive players, fly-half Ben Volavola (left, white jersey) will need to be the calm centre of the storm and marshal his side with as few errors as possible. (PHOTO: Action Images via Reuters/Paul Childs)
    Paul Childs / Reuters
  • History favours France, who have reached at least the quarter-finals in every World Cup edition. Yet, they are still in the midst of rebuilding a squad that could eventually rival their swashbuckling sides in the 1990s and 2000s. Coaches and veterans have come and gone, and the question is whether France can suddenly click into form in Japan, and thrill the fans like their predecessors. Scrum-half Antoine Dupont (left) will be among the young French stars eager to make his mark. (PHOTO: Lionel Bonaventure/AFP/Getty Images)
    14/21

    #8: France (Pool C)

    History favours France, who have reached at least the quarter-finals in every World Cup edition. Yet, they are still in the midst of rebuilding a squad that could eventually rival their swashbuckling sides in the 1990s and 2000s. Coaches and veterans have come and gone, and the question is whether France can suddenly click into form in Japan, and thrill the fans like their predecessors. Scrum-half Antoine Dupont (left) will be among the young French stars eager to make his mark. (PHOTO: Lionel Bonaventure/AFP/Getty Images)
    LIONEL BONAVENTURE via Getty Images
  • Scotland have one of the finest collection of backs at the World Cup, full of skill and pace to rip any team to shreds. The big problem for them is their light-weight forwards, which cannot offer an effective Plan B should their backs not be on song. In fly-half Finn Russell, Scotland have a gifted playmaker, but the 26-year-old needs to become more mature and composed to effectively lead his team to success. (PHOTO: AP/Scott Heppell)
    15/21

    #7: Scotland (Pool A)

    Scotland have one of the finest collection of backs at the World Cup, full of skill and pace to rip any team to shreds. The big problem for them is their light-weight forwards, which cannot offer an effective Plan B should their backs not be on song. In fly-half Finn Russell, Scotland have a gifted playmaker, but the 26-year-old needs to become more mature and composed to effectively lead his team to success. (PHOTO: AP/Scott Heppell)
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  • Such is the pedigree of two-time champions Australia that they have to be considered as title challengers in every Cup edition. Yet, the 2015 runners-up have endured a turbulent year, overshadowed by the controversial sacking of star fullback Israel Folau for his anti-gay stance due to his religious beliefs. A legal suit ensued, and the Wallabies have struggled to maintain focus on their build-up. Yet, they still managed to beat arch-rivals New Zealand last month, and may be peaking at the right time. Captain Michael Hooper's (left) energy and leadership from his flanker position will be crucial. (PHOTO: AP/David Rowland)
    16/21

    #6: Australia (Pool D)

    Such is the pedigree of two-time champions Australia that they have to be considered as title challengers in every Cup edition. Yet, the 2015 runners-up have endured a turbulent year, overshadowed by the controversial sacking of star fullback Israel Folau for his anti-gay stance due to his religious beliefs. A legal suit ensued, and the Wallabies have struggled to maintain focus on their build-up. Yet, they still managed to beat arch-rivals New Zealand last month, and may be peaking at the right time. Captain Michael Hooper's (left) energy and leadership from his flanker position will be crucial. (PHOTO: AP/David Rowland)
    ASSOCIATED PRESS
  • Two years ago, South Africa suffered humiliation after being thrashed 0-57 by New Zealand. Flash forward to this year, and the Springboks managed to hold the All Blacks to a 16-16 draw, proof of how much they have improved under coach Rassie Erasmus. One of the in-form teams heading into the World Cup, the 1995 and 2007 winners are meticulously prepared under Erasmus, and have expanded their offence from being over-reliant on tactical kicking to offering a multitude of scoring options. Loose back Siya Kolisi (left), the Springboks' first black captain, will lead a side brimming with confidence to mount a strong challenge for the Webb Ellis Cup. (PHOTO: AP/Themba Hadebe)
    17/21

    #5: South Africa (Pool B)

    Two years ago, South Africa suffered humiliation after being thrashed 0-57 by New Zealand. Flash forward to this year, and the Springboks managed to hold the All Blacks to a 16-16 draw, proof of how much they have improved under coach Rassie Erasmus. One of the in-form teams heading into the World Cup, the 1995 and 2007 winners are meticulously prepared under Erasmus, and have expanded their offence from being over-reliant on tactical kicking to offering a multitude of scoring options. Loose back Siya Kolisi (left), the Springboks' first black captain, will lead a side brimming with confidence to mount a strong challenge for the Webb Ellis Cup. (PHOTO: AP/Themba Hadebe)
    ASSOCIATED PRESS
  • A rugged, combative side built around no-nonsense captain Alun Wyn Jones, Wales have genuine title aspirations after a Grand Slam performance (beating all other sides) in February's Six Nations Championship. Yet, they are surprisingly vulnerable against southern hemisphere sides, with abysmal records against New Zealand, Australia and South Africa. Nonetheless, this is a formidable side with plenty of depth all around. Standout back Leigh Halfpenny (left) will be relied on to score the points, whether via tries or penalties. (PHOTO: Reuters/Rebecca Naden)
    18/21

    #4: Wales (Pool D)

    A rugged, combative side built around no-nonsense captain Alun Wyn Jones, Wales have genuine title aspirations after a Grand Slam performance (beating all other sides) in February's Six Nations Championship. Yet, they are surprisingly vulnerable against southern hemisphere sides, with abysmal records against New Zealand, Australia and South Africa. Nonetheless, this is a formidable side with plenty of depth all around. Standout back Leigh Halfpenny (left) will be relied on to score the points, whether via tries or penalties. (PHOTO: Reuters/Rebecca Naden)
    Rebecca Naden / Reuters
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  • It has been a roller-coaster ride for England since they hired Australian coach Eddie Jones after their disappointing 2015 World Cup. While they have enjoyed long winning runs, they have also showed defensive weaknesses in high-profile clashes. Yet the side are brimming with star talents all over, as they combine England's traditional forward power and a sound kicking game with a more expansive approach from their backs. Captain Owen Farrell (left), who can play as fly-half or centre, will be key in leading England with his kicking and playmaking. (AP Photo/Matt Dunham)
    19/21

    #3: England (Pool C)

    It has been a roller-coaster ride for England since they hired Australian coach Eddie Jones after their disappointing 2015 World Cup. While they have enjoyed long winning runs, they have also showed defensive weaknesses in high-profile clashes. Yet the side are brimming with star talents all over, as they combine England's traditional forward power and a sound kicking game with a more expansive approach from their backs. Captain Owen Farrell (left), who can play as fly-half or centre, will be key in leading England with his kicking and playmaking. (AP Photo/Matt Dunham)
    ASSOCIATED PRESS
  • The No. 1-ranked side in the world, Ireland are capable of defeating the New Zealand All Backs on their day. The problem is their current form is worryingly poor, especially after a 15-57 thrashing by England in their recent warm-up match. Many questions will be asked of their key players' ability to excel under pressure; none more so than fly-half Jonathan Sexton (left), the reigning World Player of the Year. (PHOTO: Niall Carson/PA via AP)
    20/21

    #2: Ireland (Pool A)

    The No. 1-ranked side in the world, Ireland are capable of defeating the New Zealand All Backs on their day. The problem is their current form is worryingly poor, especially after a 15-57 thrashing by England in their recent warm-up match. Many questions will be asked of their key players' ability to excel under pressure; none more so than fly-half Jonathan Sexton (left), the reigning World Player of the Year. (PHOTO: Niall Carson/PA via AP)
    ASSOCIATED PRESS
  • Compared to their imperious title defence in 2015, there is more uncertainty surrounding New Zealand All Blacks this time around, especially after a heavy recent defeat by arch-rivals Australia. Yet, such is the depth of the three-time World Cup winners that coach Steve Hansen was able to omit seasoned veterans in a bid to freshen up the All Blacks' pursuit for a third straight World Cup triumph. While the All Blacks are strong in all areas, captain Kieran Read (left) remains the heartbeat and soul of the squad, and will be counted on to lead young talents such as Richie Mo'unga, Ardie Savea and Sevu Reece to glory. (PHOTO: Hannah Peters/Getty Images)
    21/21

    #1: New Zealand (Pool B)

    Compared to their imperious title defence in 2015, there is more uncertainty surrounding New Zealand All Blacks this time around, especially after a heavy recent defeat by arch-rivals Australia. Yet, such is the depth of the three-time World Cup winners that coach Steve Hansen was able to omit seasoned veterans in a bid to freshen up the All Blacks' pursuit for a third straight World Cup triumph. While the All Blacks are strong in all areas, captain Kieran Read (left) remains the heartbeat and soul of the squad, and will be counted on to lead young talents such as Richie Mo'unga, Ardie Savea and Sevu Reece to glory. (PHOTO: Hannah Peters/Getty Images)
    Hannah Peters via Getty Images
The iconic rugby union team, the New Zealand All Blacks have won the Rugby World Cup a record three times, including the two previous editions in 2011 and 2015. Even non-rugby fans will be familiar with their spine-tinging <em>haka</em>, which they perform prior to every international match. Can they make it three titles in a row? (PHOTO: Reuters/Stefan Wermuth)
While Namibia have qualified for every Rugby World Cup edition since 1999, they have not won a single match at the tournament. Being drawn into a tough opening pool, the African nation's best hope of finally breaking their duck will be against Canada in their final pool match on 13 October. Captain Johan Deysel (left, red jersey) is the key player, who scored a memorable try against New Zealand in the 2015 Cup. (PHOTO: Mark Runnacles/Getty Images)
The last team to qualify for the Rugby World Cup after winning the Repechage tournament in November 2018, Canada face a tough challenge to advance out of the pool stage – a feat they last achieved in 1991. Success is likely to be measured by whether they can beat fellow minnows Namibia. They are likely to be captained by Tyler Ardron (left, red jersey with ball), who is undoubtedly their most talented and versatile player, capable of covering the second and back row positions. (PHOTO: Charlie Crowhurst/World Rugby via Getty Images)
Russia have qualified only once before this year's World Cup, and lost all their matches at the 2011 tournament in New Zealand. They made this year's World Cup under unusual circumstances, after Romania were docked points in the qualifiers for repeatedly using ineligible players. Experienced fly-half Yuri Kushnarev (left) will have the burden of scoring the points for the side. (PHOTO: Reuters/Anthony Phelps)
This is the fourth time Uruguay have qualified for the Rugby World Cup, but they will be eager to improve on their performance in 2015, when they lost all their pool matches. With an experienced and cohesive unit, Uruguay will look to talented fly-half Juan Manuel Cat (left) to create attacking opportunities. (PHOTO: Oliver McVeigh/Sportsfile via Getty Images)
Samoa were the original giant-killers of the Rugby World Cup, shocking the likes of Wales (twice), Italy and Argentina in the 1990s. Since then, they have not progressed out of the pool stages but their unpredictability makes them fun to watch at the tournament. Loose forward Chris Vui (left, blue jersey) is one of the youngest international captains, and his experience in the English Premiership will serve him well during the Cup. (PHOTO: Miguel Medina/AFP/Getty Images)
Tonga recorded their best Rugby World Cup results in 2011, when they beat France in a stunning upset. Guess what? The two sides will meet again in Pool D on 6 October. The Tongans will hope for a repeat to boost their chances of advancing out of the pool. Scrum-half Sonatane Takulua (left) will assume playmaking duties to lead Tonga's strong forward line, as well as kicking duties for vital points for his team. (PHOTO: Action Images/Adam Holt Livepic/Reuters)
The US will be seeking to land a major upset for the first time at the Rugby World Cup, but they have traditionally struggled against the stronger outfits. They will be hoping things improve after the launch of their professional Major League Rugby two years ago. Veteran hooker Joe Taufete'e (left) will be key in leading the forward line. (PHOTO: Seb Daly/Sportsfile via Getty Images)
It has been eight World Cup editions, but while Italy have qualified for every one of them, they have yet to reach the quarter-finals. In a tough pool which includes New Zealand and South Africa, the Italians will find it tough to advance again. Their veterans are still around, especially the back-row led by Sergio Parisse (left), and will provide much-needed experience and composure to Italy's campaign. (PHOTO: Reuters/Russell Cheyne)
Georgia have made steady progress as a rugby nation in the past decade, and head to Japan for their fifth World Cup. Their typically robust front row will be complemented by young talents in the halves and backs, and their Pool D clash against Fiji will be a fascinating encounter. Veteran flanker/No. 8 Mamuka Gorgodze (left) – nicknamed Gorgodzilla – was one of the standout players at the last World Cup, and has been enticed out of retirement for one last hurrah. (PHOTO: Reuters/David Mdzinarishvili)
Perennial dark horses, Argentina finished third in the 2007 World Cup, the highest-ever finished from a team from the Americas. A strong yet skilful side, they will be relying on players from the Jaguares side which qualified for the final of the Super Rugby tournament this year. Fly-half Nicolas Sanchez (left) is the Pumas' record points scorer, and will be key in getting the points as Argentina gun for a memorable World Cup. (PHOTO: Reuters/Rogan Ward)
Japan agonisingly missed the quarter-finals at the 2015 Rugby World Cup, pipped to second place in their pool by Scotland, despite causing the biggest-ever upset in the tournament's history by stunning South Africa 34-32 in their opening match. As hosts, the Pacific Nations Cup champions will be hoping to finally advance out of the pool stage. Pacy wing Kenki Fukuoka (left) will be vital in scoring the tries. (PHOTO: Action Images via Reuters/Andrew Boyers)
Traditionally an awesome attacking force, Fiji's Achilles heel has always been their defence. Yet, under New Zealand coach John McKee, they have improved vastly in their defensive nous and could very well spring a few shock results in their pool, which includes Australia and Wales. With so many explosive players, fly-half Ben Volavola (left, white jersey) will need to be the calm centre of the storm and marshal his side with as few errors as possible. (PHOTO: Action Images via Reuters/Paul Childs)
History favours France, who have reached at least the quarter-finals in every World Cup edition. Yet, they are still in the midst of rebuilding a squad that could eventually rival their swashbuckling sides in the 1990s and 2000s. Coaches and veterans have come and gone, and the question is whether France can suddenly click into form in Japan, and thrill the fans like their predecessors. Scrum-half Antoine Dupont (left) will be among the young French stars eager to make his mark. (PHOTO: Lionel Bonaventure/AFP/Getty Images)
Scotland have one of the finest collection of backs at the World Cup, full of skill and pace to rip any team to shreds. The big problem for them is their light-weight forwards, which cannot offer an effective Plan B should their backs not be on song. In fly-half Finn Russell, Scotland have a gifted playmaker, but the 26-year-old needs to become more mature and composed to effectively lead his team to success. (PHOTO: AP/Scott Heppell)
Such is the pedigree of two-time champions Australia that they have to be considered as title challengers in every Cup edition. Yet, the 2015 runners-up have endured a turbulent year, overshadowed by the controversial sacking of star fullback Israel Folau for his anti-gay stance due to his religious beliefs. A legal suit ensued, and the Wallabies have struggled to maintain focus on their build-up. Yet, they still managed to beat arch-rivals New Zealand last month, and may be peaking at the right time. Captain Michael Hooper's (left) energy and leadership from his flanker position will be crucial. (PHOTO: AP/David Rowland)
Two years ago, South Africa suffered humiliation after being thrashed 0-57 by New Zealand. Flash forward to this year, and the Springboks managed to hold the All Blacks to a 16-16 draw, proof of how much they have improved under coach Rassie Erasmus. One of the in-form teams heading into the World Cup, the 1995 and 2007 winners are meticulously prepared under Erasmus, and have expanded their offence from being over-reliant on tactical kicking to offering a multitude of scoring options. Loose back Siya Kolisi (left), the Springboks' first black captain, will lead a side brimming with confidence to mount a strong challenge for the Webb Ellis Cup. (PHOTO: AP/Themba Hadebe)
A rugged, combative side built around no-nonsense captain Alun Wyn Jones, Wales have genuine title aspirations after a Grand Slam performance (beating all other sides) in February's Six Nations Championship. Yet, they are surprisingly vulnerable against southern hemisphere sides, with abysmal records against New Zealand, Australia and South Africa. Nonetheless, this is a formidable side with plenty of depth all around. Standout back Leigh Halfpenny (left) will be relied on to score the points, whether via tries or penalties. (PHOTO: Reuters/Rebecca Naden)
It has been a roller-coaster ride for England since they hired Australian coach Eddie Jones after their disappointing 2015 World Cup. While they have enjoyed long winning runs, they have also showed defensive weaknesses in high-profile clashes. Yet the side are brimming with star talents all over, as they combine England's traditional forward power and a sound kicking game with a more expansive approach from their backs. Captain Owen Farrell (left), who can play as fly-half or centre, will be key in leading England with his kicking and playmaking. (AP Photo/Matt Dunham)
The No. 1-ranked side in the world, Ireland are capable of defeating the New Zealand All Backs on their day. The problem is their current form is worryingly poor, especially after a 15-57 thrashing by England in their recent warm-up match. Many questions will be asked of their key players' ability to excel under pressure; none more so than fly-half Jonathan Sexton (left), the reigning World Player of the Year. (PHOTO: Niall Carson/PA via AP)
Compared to their imperious title defence in 2015, there is more uncertainty surrounding New Zealand All Blacks this time around, especially after a heavy recent defeat by arch-rivals Australia. Yet, such is the depth of the three-time World Cup winners that coach Steve Hansen was able to omit seasoned veterans in a bid to freshen up the All Blacks' pursuit for a third straight World Cup triumph. While the All Blacks are strong in all areas, captain Kieran Read (left) remains the heartbeat and soul of the squad, and will be counted on to lead young talents such as Richie Mo'unga, Ardie Savea and Sevu Reece to glory. (PHOTO: Hannah Peters/Getty Images)
Chia Han Keong
·Editor

SINGAPORE — Get ready for a rumbling good time in Japan for the next six weeks, as the Rugby World Cup comes to Asia for the first time.

Held once every four years since 1987, rugby union’s elite international tournament has grown in stature with each edition, and produced star players such as David Campese (Australia), Jonny Wilkinson (England) and Richie McCaw (New Zealand).

The New Zealand All Blacks are the natural favourites, having won the Cup a record three times. However, they face stiff challenges from in-form England, South Africa and Ireland. And do not discount traditional powerhouses Wales and Australia, as well as dark horses Argentina and France.

Which nation will lift the Webb Ellis Cup at the Yokohama International Stadium come 2 November? Here’s a rundown of all 20 participating countries.