Rugby World 2023: Wales and Ireland are out of the competition

rugby-players.Image source, PA Media
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Both Ireland and Wales lost their quarter-final games

Saturday was a disappointing day for the home nations after both Wales and Ireland were knocked out of the Rugby World Cup.

Wales were beaten by Argentina during their quarter-final match in Marseille.

The side started well with a 10-point lead and Wales were in a strong position for much of the game. However, Argentina managed to regain control as the match went on, ultimately beating Wales 29-17.

Ireland also fought hard to gain a place in the semi-final, but their bid for victory ended in defeat at the hands of New Zealand for the second tournament in a row.

The All Blacks, who are three-time champions, beat their rivals in Paris 28-24.

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Ireland were unable to defeat former champions New Zealand

Ireland's game against New Zealand also marked a heart-breaking end to the team's captain Johnny Sexton's rugby career.

"You've got to work hard for fairytale endings and we didn't get it but that's life," said an emotional Sexton, who made his Ireland debut in 2009.

"I'm very proud of the boys, the nation, we couldn't have done any more, it's just fine margins,

"They sucker-punched us on a few tries and that's what champion teams do. We knew they were a great side and we fell just short unfortunately.

"It's been amazing. This six weeks has been a dream - this group, these fans and I'm just gutted we couldn't do it for them.

"We left no stone unturned, we ticked every box, trained the house down, and played pretty well tonight.

"But fair play to the All Blacks."

Image source, EPA
Image caption,

Saturday was a disappointing day for Ireland captain Johnny Sexton who has now retired

Argentina and New Zealand will now face each other in the semi-final in Stade de France in Paris on Friday 20 October.

England play Fiji on Sunday afternoon in Marseille.