The world of rugby is set for a thrilling encounter as Wales takes on Portugal in their second Pool C match at the Rugby World Cup. The match promises to be a captivating battle between these two teams. Here’s all you need to know:
What Is the Match About?
This Rugby World Cup clash between Wales and Portugal is set to deliver a riveting showdown. In their opening weekend game against Fiji, Wales secured a nail-biting 32-26 victory, thanks to their resolute defense and the dramatic last-minute drop goal by Semi Radradra. Now, they face Portugal in what is expected to be a less challenging encounter on the French Riviera.
Who Is Portugal’s Coach?
Patrice Lagisquet, a former France wing nicknamed the ‘Bayonne Express,’ has been coaching Portugal since 2019. Portugal, ranked 16th in the world, did not play on the opening weekend and had ample time to prepare for this match. They secured their spot in the Rugby World Cup through a crucial 16-all draw with the USA in the Final Qualification Tournament last November.
When and Where Is the Match?
Wales vs Portugal is scheduled for Saturday, September 16, 2023, with kick-off at 4:45 pm BST. The match will be held at the Stade de Nice.
Where to Watch the Match?
In the UK, the game will be broadcast live and free to air on ITV1, with coverage starting at 4 pm. Fans can also watch a free live stream of the match on the ITV website and ITVX app.
Team News
Wales has made extensive changes to its lineup in preparation for an important pool decider against Australia on September 24. Most of the starting lineup from the previous game has been rotated, with Louis Rees-Zammit and Taulupe Faletau being the exceptions. Dewi Lake, making his World Cup debut, captains the side.
Portugal welcomes the return to fitness of Raffaele Storti, a 17-try Stade Francais wing, after injury.
Lineups
Wales XV: Halfpenny; Rees-Zammit, Grady, Williams, Dyer; Anscombe, Williams; Smith, Lake (c) Lewis; Tshiunza, Jenkins; Lydiate, Reffell, Faletau
Replacements: Elias, Domachowski, Beard, Francis, Basham, G Davies, Costelow, Adams
Portugal XV: To be confirmed
Referee
English referee Karl Dickson will officiate the match, with Luke Pearce and Italy’s Andrea Piardi assisting. The Television Match Official (TMO) will be South Africa’s Marius Jonker.
Prediction
Wales enters the match with confidence, and despite the lineup changes, they are expected to secure a comfortable victory in Nice. While Portugal will display determination and heart, the gap in skill and class is evident, making their return to the Rugby World Cup stage a tough challenge. Wales is predicted to win by at least 40 points.
Head to Head (h2h) History and Results
These two nations previously met in May 1994 in Lisbon. Wales dominated the match with a 102-11 victory, scoring 16 tries, including four from Nigel Walker. Neil Jenkins contributed 11 conversions.
Wales wins: 1
Portugal wins: 0
Draws: 0
Latest Odds
– Wales to win: 1/80
– Portugal to win: 40/1
– Draw: 50/1
(Odds via Betfair, subject to change)
