Rugby’s Greatest Rivalries and Most Iconic Matches

March 5, 2025 Rasmus Kristensen

Rugby has a long history of intense rivalries shaped by national pride, historic conflicts, and legendary matches. Some rivalries have lasted over a century, while others have emerged in the modern era. Here are the greatest rugby rivalries and their most iconic clashes.

England vs. France (Le Crunch)

This fierce rivalry is fueled by historical tensions and a deep sporting competition. Matches between England and France in the Six Nations are always heated battles. One of the most memorable encounters was in the 1991 Rugby World Cup quarter-final, where England edged France 19-10 in a brutal and physical contest.

New Zealand vs. South Africa

Arguably the most intense rivalry in rugby, the All Blacks and Springboks have been battling for supremacy since 1921. The 1995 Rugby World Cup Final remains the most iconic match, where South Africa won 15-12 in extra time, symbolizing the nation’s unity after Apartheid.

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Wales vs. England

Dating back to the early days of rugby, this Six Nations rivalry is one of the sport’s most passionate. The 2013 Six Nations decider was one of the greatest, where Wales crushed England 30-3 to deny them a Grand Slam and secure the championship.

Ireland vs. England

This rivalry extends beyond the rugby field, rooted in deep historical and political tensions. One of the most memorable moments came in 2018 when Ireland defeated England 24-15 at Twickenham to secure a Grand Slam.

Scotland vs. England (Calcutta Cup)

The oldest fixture in international rugby, dating back to 1871, always carries a special intensity. Scotland’s dramatic 38-38 draw at Twickenham in 2019, after being 31-0 down, is one of the most thrilling matches in Six Nations history.

France vs. New Zealand

France has provided some of the greatest World Cup upsets against the All Blacks. The 1999 Rugby World Cup semi-final saw France produce one of the biggest shocks in history, coming from behind to win 43-31.

Australia vs. New Zealand (Bledisloe Cup)

The trans-Tasman rivalry is one of the most entertaining in rugby. The 2000 Bledisloe Cup match in Sydney, where New Zealand won 39-35 in a last-minute thriller, is often called the greatest Test match ever.

South Africa vs. England

Their rivalry has grown over the years, particularly in Rugby World Cups. The 2019 World Cup Final saw South Africa dominate England 32-12 to claim their third world title, showcasing their physical superiority.

Ireland vs. New Zealand

For years, Ireland struggled to defeat the All Blacks, but that changed in 2016 when they secured a historic first-ever win over New Zealand with a 40-29 victory in Chicago. Since then, their clashes have become some of the most anticipated in world rugby.

France vs. South Africa

France and South Africa’s meetings have often been physical battles. The 2023 Rugby World Cup quarter-final was a classic, where South Africa edged out France 29-28 in an epic contest that left fans in awe.

Argentina vs. England

English Rugby Team — Victor Velter / Shutterstock.com

While not as historic as others, this rivalry has produced major upsets. Argentina shocked England at Twickenham in 2006 and again in the 2022 Autumn Nations Series with a stunning 30-29 victory.

Wales vs. Ireland

This Celtic rivalry has decided multiple Six Nations championships. The 2009 Grand Slam decider saw Ireland edge Wales 17-15 to secure their first Six Nations title in 24 years.

Australia vs. England

Since England’s victory over Australia in the 2003 Rugby World Cup Final, this fixture has carried extra weight. The 2015 World Cup clash, where Australia eliminated England with a dominant 33-13 win at Twickenham, remains a painful memory for English fans.

New Zealand vs. Ireland

Once a one-sided affair, this rivalry has become one of rugby’s most competitive. Ireland’s 32-22 victory over New Zealand in 2022 in Wellington sealed a historic series win and cemented their status as a top-tier team.

South Africa vs. Wales

Wales has come close to shocking South Africa on multiple occasions. The 2019 World Cup semi-final, where South Africa won 19-16 in a tense battle, was a testament to the growing competitiveness between the two nations.