Speaking to Joe Molloy on Off The Ball ahead of the crucial Pool decider between Ireland and France, former coach Eddie O'Sullivan warned about the challenge that lies ahead of Joe Schmidt's men.
For O'Sullivan, the game could come down to the depth available to the teams on the bench, in particular when it comes to the scrum. He warns that the French could look to wear down Ireland during the scrum, and then bring on a number of replacements that are of the same standard after an hour, which can give them dominance in that area.
He also added that the French always have another gear in their locker, and while they might not have shown it yet, if they manage to click into it today then it would spell certain trouble for Ireland.
However, it wasn't all bad news either, as Eddie spoke about the positives, saying "there will be stuff that they haven't used earlier in the tournament because it wasn't suitable. Joe Schmidt has a great reputation for analysing opposition, finding the weakness and then on the day putting one or two things in that split the game open".
He also added that stripping them of that veneer that they have and perhaps even getting an early score could completely throw France off their rhythm, which could be the difference maker.
Giving his prediction, O'Sullivan thinks it will be a tight game that comes down to the last few minutes, and what Ireland can produce in the scrum.
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