Samuel Marquez’s penalty kick soars in the sky over Dubai, travels between the poles, and Portugal gloats. Os Lobos (Wolves) won an unexpected draw (16-16) against the United States at the last second, synonymous with qualifying for the next Rugby World Cup in France (September 8 to October 28, 2023). The Portuguese, the clear winners from Kenya and Hong Kong in the first two matches of this final tournament at 4, just like the United States, are ahead of the Americans at the end on points difference.
Thus, Portugal obtained the second qualification in its history for the World Cup, after 2007. It was already in France. The United States have only missed the finals once, in 1995. So it’s a real feat for Patrice Lajesquet players. Like their coach, many of the players in L’Occitane’s selection are French or play in France, such as striker and hero of the evening Samuel Marquez, pitching half from Carcassonne, who notably passed through Toulouse, or Massey alumni Mike Tader and Stevie Cerqueira.
The “little” Portuguese national team was able to take the lead against the Eagles with a first-hand effort after a good touch managed by Tadjer and Cerqueira, before winger Rafael Storte wrapped up at the end of the line, on loan from Stade. French in Beziers (ProD2). The Portuguese resistance was a homery, until the Americans got back in front with a try on the hour mark, but the Portuguese’s bravery and sacrifice made the difference at the end of the match. With the 80th minute gone, Portugal thought they could make the difference after a touchdown sent in again by Portela but nonetheless earned the final penalty kick from Marques, in the last minute. Date!
“It’s unbelievable, cheers Portuguese captain Thomas Appleton. It’s great for the new generation that needs a World Cup experience, it’s good for Portuguese rugby. Thanks to our coach Patrice who did a great job!” On the floor, Samuel Marquez can cheer in French: “We We are going to the World Cup! »
Portugal is drawn into Group C at the World Cup along with Australia, Wales, Fiji and Georgia. All 20 qualifiers are now known.
