Du Plessis expects Ireland to make World Cup final

Springbok prop Jannie du Plessis has backed “brilliant” Ireland to make it to the World Cup final after their impressive performances so far in the tournament.

Ireland and Wales made statements early on in the competition against southern hemisphere opposition. Declan Kidney’s men upset the odds with a victory over the Wallabies while Wales came agonisingly close to beating South Africa but ended losing by a single point.

In contrast, the other all northern hemisphere quarter final sees two out of form sides face off.

England have been all over the news for the wrong reasons while French coach Marc Lievremont has angered his players with his public criticism of their performances.

While his main focus is on beating Australia on Sunday, du Plessis admitted to being intrigued by the opposite side of the quarter final draw.

"Ireland have been playing incredibly well," he told The Guardian. "They have really stepped up and brilliant is the only word to describe them. Wales have also made a mark.

“They nearly beat us in the opening group game and any side that puts 66 points on Fiji commands respect. It is going to be some game between them on Saturday.”

"The other semi-final is intriguing. France and England both know how to win big games. France have knocked out New Zealand in two of the last three World Cups, while England showed again against Scotland that when they look down-and-out they can dig deep to come through.”

Having started against Wales in their Pool D encounter du Plessis knows all about the quality Warren Gatland has at his disposal and is full of admiration for their progress in recent years.

Notwithstanding Wales’ good form however, the prop forward fancies Ireland to advance to the final, something he hopes his Springbok side can also achieve.

"They (Wales) have always had bags of talent but now they seem to have a belief in each other and they have developed a structure that works for them. I like the way they are playing an exciting brand of rugby, but if I had to make a choice for the final it would be Ireland. They just look in really great shape."