2023-09-24 14:55:46
By Ad.B.
Published 11 minutes ago, Updated now
The Australians united during the defeat against Fiji on Sunday September 17. Andrew Cornaga/www.photosport.nz / Photosport / Panoramic
Before a decisive Wales-Australia this Sunday (9 p.m.), the 1991 and 1999 world champion fears the repercussions of eliminating the Wallabies in the group stage.
In Lyon this Sunday evening (9 p.m.), Australia will play against Wales on “most important match of the professional era» according to Tim Horan. The former center, world champion with the Wallabies in 1991 and 1999, explains to World Rugby that “failing to qualify for the quarter-finals of the World Cup would have serious consequences.»
A defeat against the XV du Poreau would put Australia in a very bad position in Group D which nevertheless seemed within their reach. Eddie Jones’ men would be dependent on a misstep from Fiji against Portugal or Georgia in the last two days. In short, they would be almost eliminated. A situation that they have never experienced in nine appearances.
Read alsoRugby World Cup: Australia under maximum tension despite Eddie Jones
Tim Horan, 53, a former consultant for the Australian media, explains that it is difficult to get air time in Australia for rugby, and that an early elimination would make “difficult to promote over the next two years».
“Recovering the DNA of Australian rugby”
To beat the Welsh, Horan recommends “find the DNA of Australian rugby», namely a game based on possession, running and playing out wide with the wingers. It will also be necessary to take care of discipline, especially since “Dan Biggar (Welsh fly half) can score penalties from anywhere».
The consultant does not blame Eddie Jones for having formed “the youngest team in the entire World Cup» but would have liked a few more experienced players, like Pete Samu (31 years old, 32 caps). However, he retains all confidence in this group. “Tonight you will see something exceptional from the Wallabies.»
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