WATCH: Real men DO cry: Ian Madigan sums up the emotion of a nation

Ian Madigan’s tears at the end of Ireland’s victory over France this evening summed up what the win meant to the team, and what it cost them.

When Ireland lost their talismans, Paul O’Connell and Johhny Sexton, the team could have buckled.

Instead Madigan and teammates all over the field stepped up and put in a second-half performance that will live long in the memory.

Just look at his reaction at the final whistle.

Rugby. It's an emotional sport. And we love it. #RWC2015 #FRAvIREhttps://t.co/OtWti4Vpyr

— Rugby World Cup (@rugbyworldcup) October 11, 2015

Madigan’s tears summed up how many viewing the game felt, and they appreciated the honesty and openness of his reaction to the win.

Thank you for the support. @Ian_madigan shows just how much it meant. #ShoulderToShoulder #IREvFRA #RWC2015 pic.twitter.com/uJqFOLa8ZF

— Irish Rugby (@IrishRugby) October 11, 2015

I'm crying with you, @Ian_madigan.

— Ross O'Carroll-Kelly (@RossOCK) October 11, 2015

An emotional @Ian_madigan after the game! He really came of age today in a green shirt! #COYBIG pic.twitter.com/XEWlSJAby9

— sportsfile (@sportsfile) October 11, 2015

#maddog Madigan stepped up to the challenge,all the a team did.#proudtobeirish #ShoulderToShoulder #IrelandvsFrance pic.twitter.com/pWEVocBIau

— Sarah Fitzgerald (@_sadiefitz) October 11, 2015