This weekend marks the conclusion of the November test window for Rugby Europe’s teams heading to RWC 2027, alongside a major sevens tournament in Trinidad. Fans can look forward to critical matches featuring recognized and emerging rugby nations, making it a vibrant weekend for rugby enthusiasts.
Key Matches to Watch This Weekend
November Internationals Schedule
- Georgia vs Japan: Mikheil Meskhi Stadium, Tbilisi, 12:00 GMT, 22nd November
- Romania vs Uruguay: Stadionul National Arcul de Triumf, Bucharest, 15:00 GMT, 22nd November
- Portugal vs Canada: Estádio Municipal Cidade de Coimbra, 16:00 GMT, 22nd November
- Spain vs Fiji: Estadio Ciudad de Málaga, 16:00 GMT, 22nd November
Match Insights
The tournament’s highlight features a face-off between Georgia and Japan. Currently ranked 11th, Georgia seeks to cement its status in the upcoming Rugby World Cup draw’s second band. Japan, positioned at 13th, aims to recover from a recent loss against Wales.
Historically, these teams have seen competitive encounters, with Georgia edging past Japan with a record of three wins to two in their last five matchups. Their last clash resulted in a narrow victory for Georgia, winning 25-23 in Sendai.
Meanwhile, Spain will be challenging Fiji, who has shown resilience against top teams like England and France this autumn. Spain recently lost a closely contested match against England A, and they will strive for a more favorable result during this matchup.
Other Notable International Matches
Romania is looking to bounce back from a previous defeat against the USA as they host Uruguay. Uruguay comes into this match after mixed results: a victory over Portugal and a loss to the All Blacks XV.
Lastly, Portugal will take on Canada in Coimbra after a dominant performance against Hong Kong China, where they secured a comprehensive 58-12 victory. Canada has struggled during their European tour and will be eager to turn things around against a higher-ranked opponent.
Rugby Americas North Sevens Tournament
Event Details
Simultaneously, the Rugby Americas North Sevens takes place in Trinidad from November 21st to 23rd. This tournament features 14 countries, including six women’s teams and 14 men’s teams, divided into different tiers.
- Men’s Tier 1: Canada aims to defend their title against Trinidad & Tobago. They will also face Mexico, Bermuda, and Barbados in Group A.
- Men’s Tier 2: Competing teams include British Virgin Islands, Bahamas, Curacao, and others.
The women’s competition sees Mexico defending their title against challengers such as Trinidad & Tobago, Barbados, Bermuda, and Guyana.
All matches will be available globally on El-Balad’s platform. Follow the action live, starting daily from 13:00 GMT throughout this exciting weekend.
