Rugby Union
2026 Nations Championship: Round 2 Predictions & Betting Tips
The inaugural Nations Championship got underway last weekend and William Hill News are on hand to preview the second round of fixtures.
Eyebrows were raised over whether the prospect of more international rugby was really necessary, but the first round of games proved that you just can’t have enough Test rugby after what were six thrilling matches.
Round two brings with it more mouth-watering clashes, which we will take a closer look at.
New Zealand vs Italy (06:10)
As they did last weekend, New Zealand open proceedings in round two and this weekend they face Italy. The All Blacks come into this game buoyed by their hard-fought two-point victory over Six Nations champions France. Italy, on the other hand, fell to a 27-10 loss at the hands of Japan, and face an even tougher task against the World Number 2. This should be a formality for New Zealand.
Odds: New Zealand 1/100 | Draw 66/1 | Italy 16/1
Australia vs France (08:40)
Not long ago this game would’ve looked like a walkover for France, but Australia are on the up and their ascendancy was epitomised by the brilliant performance they put in against Ireland last weekend in a game which they were unlucky to lose by just two points. That said, France remain the favourites here having suffered an equally agonising loss to New Zealand. This should be a proper tussle and it wouldn’t be too surprising to see the Wallabies prevail in Brisbane.
Odds: Australia 2/1 | Draw 20/1 | France 2/5
Japan vs Ireland (11:10)
Japan have been the fans’ favourite dark horse of rugby union for some time now and have finally earned their place at the top table. They proved their worth against Italy last weekend, running out 27-10 winners, but Ireland are a different prospect. Andy Farrell’s side gained a narrow victory over the Aussies last weekend and their class should see them through this one with minimal fuss.
Odds: Japan 17/2 | Draw 33/1 | Ireland 1/20
Fiji vs England (14:10)
The first afternoon game kicks of a double-header for England fans, who will watch their footballers take on Norway in the World Cup on the same evening. The Red Rose haven’t had as much recent success as the Three Lions, losing convincingly to South Africa last time out, but this is a good opportunity to bounce back. Fiji suffered a 15-point loss to Six Nations Wooden Spoon holders Wales and England will expect to inflict another defeat on them this weekend.
Odds: Fiji 7/1 | Draw 33/1 | England 1/14
South Africa vs Scotland (16:40)
On a weekend which pits a lot of powerhouses against underdogs, the theme is continued by South Africa taking on Scotland in Pretoria. The Springboks put England to the sword last weekend and proved exactly why they’re considered the best side in the world at the moment. Scotland have their work cut out for them against the World Champions and it’s hard to see them making it two wins from two after last weekend’s victory over Argentina, a far less formidable opponent.
Odds: South Africa 1/16 | Draw 33/1 | Scotland 8/1
Argentina vs Wales (20:10)
The curtain comes down on the second round of Nations Championship fixtures as Argentina take on Wales. Wales actually sit top of the Northern Hemisphere standings after round one, but that victory over a notably week Fiji side probably flattered them. Argentina will want to put right their shaky start against Scotland and where better to do that than in front of their own fans. Argentina can push themselves up the Southern Hemisphere ranking and knock Wales of their perch.
Odds: Argentina 1/9 | Draw 33/1 | Wales 5/1
*Prices accurate at the time of writing – odds subject to change*
