Teams limping after brutal pool stage
It's possible that some people are seeing a different World Cup - one that hasn't factored in the physical and emotional toil that some teams have already endured.
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Video footage of Ireland flanker could add to squad's woes as they go into quarter finals already several men down.
It's France again for ABs
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RWC: Schmidt desperate for Ireland to avoid ABs
Joe Schmidt invited a series of sporting legends into camp to inspire his players for the important encounter with France.
Live: Ireland v Italy
Live updates and stats from the Rugby World Cup pool D clash between Ireland and Italy at the Olympic Stadium.
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Consider Ireland's confidence restored, as confident team overcome Romania with ease.
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Why Irish eyes are smiling (a little)
Mention Ireland's surge up the world rankings to coach Joe Schmidt, and he pulls out an outstanding vocal fend.
Rugby: Ireland owe success to Kiwi messiah
When Joe Schmidt arrived to take his seat at Musgrave Park in Cork last month, to watch the Ireland Wolfhounds take on England Saxons, every step up the stand led to another delay.
All Blacks: Irish legend tips ABs for Cup
Brian O'Driscoll, the former Ireland and Lions midfielder, believes the All Blacks will win next year's World Cup because of their much higher skill factor relative to other nations.
Rugby: Coach's holiday - watching rugby
A break in New Zealand has been a bit of a busman's holiday for Ireland rugby coach Joe Schmidt.
Rugby: Heavyweight trio share roots in small village in Wales
It is a small world, and an even smaller rugby world.
Rugby: French packed plenty of punch
From the get-go, this clash appealed as the tightest fixture of the day.
Rugby: Rookie ready to face off against O'Driscoll
England's three-cap centre Luther Burrell has to find a way to control the 139-test Ireland legend Brian O'Driscoll - and he cannot wait to have a go.
Rugby: Ireland in unfamiliar territory without O'Gara
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All Blacks complete perfect season
The All Blacks completed their first perfect season as a last-gasp try by Ryan Crotty and an Aaron Cruden conversion defeated Ireland 24-22.
Rugby: Few teams could have matched All Blacks
The All Blacks lapped Ireland with a brand of high-octane, high-skill, power rugby which few teams could have parried.
Rugby: Ireland discuss tactics at captain's run
The Irish rugby team discuss last week's play and their tactics for this weekend's game at a conference held in conjunction with Ireland's captain's run.