Ireland v New Zealand: The quarterfinal of the Rugby World Cup features three crucial battles

JOHNNY SEXTON V RICHIE MO’UNGA

This is a tantalizing match-up. The talented All Blacks’ No. 10 enthusiastically described facing his Irish opponent today and for the last time as being a huge occasion for both of them on Thursday.

Sexton’s career will finish if Ireland loses, but if the All Blacks lose, Mo’unga won’t play again for the national team until he returns from Japan, where he will play rugby from 2024 to 2026.

For both of them, this is a waste of time.

CAELAN DORIS v ARDIE SAVEA

A potential classic showdown between two top-tier no 8s.

Savea has a lot of motivation built up; he is one of eight All Blacks chosen who participated in all three Test matches last year against Ireland, and this week, he spoke about the hurt he still feels from losing the 2019 World Cup semi-final to England.

Given that he acknowledged to being reserved on some important evenings, Doris will want to make a statement with his performance on this stage.

JAMES LOWE V WILL JORDAN

Andy Farrell will have been relieved that his first-choice wingers Lowe and Mack Hansen are well enough to play, despite the fact that he enjoys embracing adversity.

Since he originally joined the Ireland lineup, Lowe’s defensive play has significantly improved, and today, he must be razor-sharp in his awareness of Jordan.

The All Blacks’ standout from the Crusaders has scored 27 tries in 28 games, including three straight games against Ireland.