The Autumn Internationals aren’t just about fine tuning tactics. They’re about payback. This year, three fixtures jump off the calendar as straight-up grudge matches born out of the drama, heartbreak, and glory of the 2023 Rugby World Cup.

England v New Zealand – Revenge for a Semi-Final Heartbreak

Twickenham will be playing for blood when England host the All Blacks. Their last World Cup meeting ended in semi-final agony for England, with New Zealand’s precision dismantling their hopes of reaching the final. Now, Steve Borthwick’s side get the perfect shot at revenge on home soil.

• Grudge factor: Semi-final loss, and a decade-long rivalry of trading knockout blows.
  
• Ones to watch: Maro Itoje locking horns with Ardie Savea in a physical and mental battle for dominance.
  

Ireland v South Africa – The Battle of Paris, Round Two

In the 2023 pool stages, Ireland edged South Africa in a brutal, high-quality clash that many called the game of the tournament. But when the Boks went on to lift the Webb Ellis Cup, it was their smiles on the podium. Ireland now have the chance to prove that win wasn’t a one-off and that they can beat the champs again.

• Grudge factor: Ireland won the battle, South Africa won the war.
  
• Ones to watch: Jack Crowley’s composure under pressure vs Siya Kolisi’s big-match leadership.
  

France v South Africa – The Quarter-Final That Broke French Hearts

It was the game that stopped a nation. France, at home in full flight, and favourites for the title painfully undone by South Africa’s ruthless efficiency and an epic defensive stand. The Springboks edged it by a single point in one of the most dramatic knockout games in rugby history. Now Les Bleus get their rematch, and the Stade de France crowd will demand nothing less than revenge.

• Grudge factor: Quarter-final defeat, one-point heartbreak, and a nation’s unfinished business.
  
• Ones to watch: Antoine Dupont (if recovered) orchestrating the French attack vs Pieter-Steph du Toit’s relentless work rate in defence.
  

Final Word

These aren’t just matches. They’re the continuation of World Cup storylines, steeped in rivalry and unfinished business. Expect bruising collisions, emotional edge, and maybe a few score-settling moments that the players, and fans have been waiting two years for.