Ireland vs Samoa Prediction & Betting Tips - Rugby World Cup

Prediction published on 09/10/2019, 09:28  by Steve Ashfield | Modified on 09/10/2019 at 10:28 in Rugby World Cup Prediction

Ireland haven't had it all their own way in Pool A of the 2019 Rugby World Cup. They go into their final pool match in second place in the group, that's three points behind surprise leaders Japan and one ahead of third-placed Scotland. Even a win in this game against Samoa might not see them finish top of the pool if Japan can beat Scotland on Sunday. A loss to Samoa could even see them knocked out if Scotland beat Japan. Ireland should be able to clinch qualification for the last eight with a win over Samoa. Their opponents have had a disappointing campaign with their only win coming against bottom side Russia.

Samoa have already lost 34-0 to Scotland and 38-19 to Japan. A win here could get them into third and automatic qualification for the next tournament but that looks unlikely. Ireland lost to Japan but have had good wins over Scotland and Russia only conceding three points in those two matches. They have won five of their six previous games against Samoa and can be backed to win this game on a -28 handicap. Whether that will get them to the top of the pool and avoid a likely quarter final against New Zealand remains to be seen.