Ireland vs Tonga Preview & Prediction | 2023 Rugby World Cup | Pool Stage

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THE FACTS

When is Ireland vs Tonga on and what time does it start? Ireland vs Tonga will take place on Saturday 16th September, 2023 – 20:00 (UK)

Where is Ireland vs Tonga taking place? Ireland vs Tonga will take place at Stade de la Beaujoire in Nantes, France

Where can I get tickets for Ireland vs Tonga? Click here for the latest ticket information for Ireland vs Tonga

What channel is Ireland vs Tonga on in the UK? Ireland vs Tonga will be televised live on ITV

Where can I stream Ireland vs Tonga in the UK? Ireland vs Tonga can be streamed live on ITVX

THE SQUADS

IRELAND

Starting 15: Hugo Keenan, Mack Hansen,Garry Ringrose, Bundee Aki, James Lowe, Johnny Sexton, Conor Murray, Andrew Porter, Ronan Kelleher, Tadhg Furlong, Tadhg Beirne, James Ryan, Peter O'Mahony, Josh van der Flier, Caelan Doris

Replacements: Rob Herring, Dave Kilcoyne, Finlay Bealham, Iain Henderson, Ryan Baird, Craig Casey, Ross Byrne, Robbie Henshaw

TONGA

Starting 15: Salesi Piutau, Afusipa Taumoepeau, Malakai Fekitoa, Pita Ahki, Solomone Kata, William Havili, Augustine Pulu, Siegfried Fisi'ihoi, Paula Ngauamo, Ben Tameifuna, Sam Lousi, Halaleva Fifita, Tanginoa Halaifonua, Sione Talitui, Vaea Fifita

Replacements: Sam Moli, Tau Koloamatangi, Sosefo Apikotoa, Semisi Paea, Solomone Funaki, Sione Vailanu, Sonatane Takul, Fine Inisi

THE LOWDOWN

IRELAND

Ireland will have tougher tasks ahead than they faced in their Rugby World Cup opener against Romania but they still produced an eye-catching display. Leading 33-8 at the break, the Irish were ruthless in the second half as they amassed a further 49 points without reply.

TONGA

Tonga will get their RWC campaign underway with the daunting prospect of facing Ireland. The Tongans come into the tournament with back-to-back wins against Canada under their belt but this challenge cannot be compared and they will do well to stay in the contest.

THE PREDICTION

Ireland were dominant winners over Romania in their first game of the tournament and it is hard to see anything other than another big success here. Tonga will aim to compete physically but are likely to be outclassed and Ireland should be able to claim another straightforward victory to extend their winning streak to 16 matches.

BETTING TIP: Ireland -37