World Rugby U20 Championship: Pool A Standings

Ahead of the final round of pool matches, we take a look at what each nation needs to do to make it out of their respective pools, and maintain their hopes of winning the World Rugby U20 Championship 2024 in South Africa.

Following two enthralling rounds of the World Rugby U20 Championship 2024, nine teams remain in contention for a place in the semi-finals.

New Zealand, Ireland and England head into the final round of the pool stage with their destiny in their own hands but that does not mean they will still be in top spot by the end of Tuesday.

With six matches to be played in Cape Town and Stellenbosch on day three, we take a look at what each nation needs to do to qualify for the semi-finals.

POOL A

The equation facing New Zealand on day three could not be simpler – avoid defeat against Spain in the final match at Danie Craven Stadium in Stellenbosch and they will be through to the semi-finals as pool winners.

A draw would take New Zealand to 12 points and even if Wales beat France with a try bonus point to match that tally, the six-time champions would finish top on the head-to-head rule having beaten the Welsh 41-34 on day one.

However, depending on the result of the earlier match between defending champions France and Wales, New Zealand could actually lose and still top the pool.

Should Les Bleuets beat Wales without a bonus point, then New Zealand would progress regardless of their result against Spain, thanks to their dramatic 27-26 win against the French in round two.

If France secure a five-point victory, then New Zealand would need only one point to guarantee top spot and a first semi-final since 2018.

Wales start the day in second place in Pool A and would put pressure on New Zealand with victory against France.

If they pick up a first win in the fixture since 2020 without a bonus point, then New Zealand need one point to qualify. Should Wales secure all five match points then Jono Gibbes’ side need a draw or two bonus points to top the pool.

Any victory on Tuesday would put Wales in the box seat to reach the semi-finals as the best runner-up.

Having lost both of their opening matches, Spain are the only team in Pool A that cannot make the semi-finals.