In pictures: Ireland fans turn Nantes green for Rugby World Cup showdown with Tonga

The Irish fanbase gather in their thousands before the pool clash

This will be only the third time the teams have met on the international stage. Picture: INPHO/Laszlo Geczo.

For Ireland's legion of fans, the Rugby World Cup just got serious. Over 15,000 guys and gals in green have descended on Nantes for tonight’s second Pool B clash against Tonga. 

This is Ireland's first time playing in Nantes. Picture: INPHO/Laszlo Geczo