Rugby Union
Nations Championship 2026: Round One Predictions and Betting Tips
The inaugural Nations Championship gets underway on Saturday with six mouth-watering clashes as the best of the Northern and Southern Hemispheres go head-to-head. William Hill News are here to preview every Round One fixture along with the latest match odds.
New Zealand vs France (08:10)
The tournament opens with a blockbuster as New Zealand welcome France to Christchurch. Few fixtures in world rugby generate as much excitement, with both nations renowned for playing fast, attacking rugby. Home advantage makes the All Blacks deserved favourites, but France have the quality to trouble anyone if they hit their stride. With two genuine title contenders facing off immediately, this promises to be one of the matches of the weekend.
Odds: New Zealand 1/5 | Draw 28/1 | France 7/2
Japan vs Italy (09:40)
Japan host Italy in what could prove to be one of the most intriguing contests of the opening round. Japan have become increasingly competitive at home and will look to use their pace and quick ball movement to unsettle the Italians. However, Italy arrive as clear favourites after continuing to improve over recent seasons and will be targeting a strong start to their campaign.
Odds: Japan 27/10 | Draw 22/1 | Italy 2/7
Australia vs Ireland (11:10)
Sydney hosts a fascinating clash between Australia and Ireland. The Wallabies will hope home support can inspire a winning start, while Ireland will be determined to continue their impressive consistency against Southern Hemisphere opposition. It has all the ingredients of a physical, high-quality encounter, with Ireland narrowly favoured despite being away from home.
Odds: Australia 6/5 | Draw 22/1 | Ireland 7/10
Fiji vs Wales (14:10)
Fiji take on Wales in Cardiff in one of the more unusual fixtures of the opening round, with Fiji designated as the home side despite the match being played in Wales. Fiji’s exciting attacking style makes them slight favourites, while Wales will be desperate to silence the home crowd’s nerves by producing an upset. Expect plenty of running rugby in what should be an entertaining contest.
Odds: Fiji 4/5 | Draw 22/1 | Wales 21/20
South Africa vs England (16:40)
The Springboks begin their campaign against England in Johannesburg in arguably the toughest assignment any side faces this weekend. South Africa’s power, physicality and formidable home record explain why they are overwhelming favourites. England will need one of their best performances in recent years if they are to spring a surprise against the reigning world champions.
Odds: South Africa 1/10 | Draw 28/1 | England 11/2
Argentina vs Scotland (20:10)
The opening day concludes in Córdoba as Argentina host Scotland. Los Pumas have become a formidable force on home soil and are deserved favourites heading into the contest. Scotland possess the attacking quality to cause problems but will have to overcome both a passionate Argentine crowd and a difficult away environment if they are to begin the tournament with victory.
Odds: Argentina 3/10 | Draw 22/1 | Scotland 12/5
*Prices accurate at the time of writing – odds subject to change*
