Irish fans show colours for Rugby World Cup 2023 opener against Romania

Excitement is building among the Irish contingent in Bordeaux as they prepare to watch their side take on Romania.

EXPECTANT: Irish fans Paul Heffernan and Fabien Pollard soaking in the pre-match atmosphere in Bordeaux ahead of Ireland's opening game of the Rugby World Cup against Romania at Stade de Bordeaux. Pic: Cian O'Regan.

While Andy Farrell's side complete final preparations for their group opener against Romania in the Stade de Bordeaux, the Irish fans are waiting with baited breath to see how their boys in green will perform in the French heat. The expected attendance for the game is around 40,000 with 20,000 of those wearing green.

Irish fans will be there in their thousands to cheer on the boys in green. Pic: David Davies/PA Wire.

The expected Irish attendance is around 20,000. Pic: David Davies/PA Wire.

Ireland supporters Ailish McCambridge, left, and Jillian Dawson from Dublin. Pic: Brendan Moran/Sportsfile.

Ireland fans will be more expectant than usual this time around with the team going into the tournament as World number 1. Pic: David Davies/PA Wire.

Ireland's next group game will be against Tonga. Pic: David Davies/PA Wire.