Andrew Porter says Ireland squad ‘all have the belief’ to win World Cup

By Ed Elliot
Published 13th Sep 2023, 09:13 BST
Watch more of our videos on Shots! 
and live on Freeview channel 276
Visit Shots! now
Prop Andrew Porter insists every member of Andy Farrell’s 33-man squad believes Ireland can win the World Cup.

Rugby’s top-ranked nation are among the favourites for glory in France but have never won a knockout match at the tournament following a string of disappointing last-eight exits.

The Six Nations champions launched their campaign by dispatching Pool B minnows Romania 82-8 and on Saturday face Tonga in Nantes before pivotal Paris showdowns with title holders South Africa and Scotland.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Porter believes Ireland’s current crop of players have no qualms about previous failures or the quarter-final “curse”.

Ireland's Andrew Porter attempts to break a tackle during the Rugby World Cup Pool B match at the Stade de Bordeaux. PIC: David Davies/PA WireIreland's Andrew Porter attempts to break a tackle during the Rugby World Cup Pool B match at the Stade de Bordeaux. PIC: David Davies/PA Wire
Ireland's Andrew Porter attempts to break a tackle during the Rugby World Cup Pool B match at the Stade de Bordeaux. PIC: David Davies/PA Wire

“I don’t think this squad does,” said the 27-year-old, who was part of the team eliminated 46-14 by New Zealand at the 2019 World Cup in Japan. “We all have the belief that we can go and win.

"I don’t think anyone is too bothered with what’s happened in the past.

“Obviously there’s lads that have been in three World Cups and four World Cups, and it’s incredible to have their experience in the squad.

Hide Ad