"No-one wants to see that" - Sir Clive Woodward's damning Tom Curry verdict

Monday, 24 November 2025 at 11:01

byRugby Rucker

Sir Clive Woodward has weighed in on the fallout from England’s 27-23 win over Argentina at Allianz Stadium, criticising the way the match ended and the ugly scenes that followed.

The drama centred on England flanker Tom Curry, who appeared to injure Argentina full-back Juan Cruz Mallia with a late tackle that went unreferenced by the television match official. Mallia left the field with a suspected serious knee injury, leaving the Pumas a man down in the closing stages.

Join RUCK’s Instagram broadcast channel
and get the latest rugby news straight to your phone.

Tensions boiled over after the final whistle, with a scuffle involving Curry and players from both sides. Argentina head coach Felipe Contepomi called out Curry directly, describing him as a “bully” and claiming he swore and pushed him in the tunnel.

“I don’t know where to start with it,” Contepomi said. “I would call it reckless… And Curry, it’s probably part of his nature to bully people. He came off in the tunnel and gave me a little smack. He is 27, strong. I am 48.”

Writing in his column for the Mail Online, Woodward praised England’s young talent but was scathing about how the match will be remembered.

“It will be a shame if all this match is remembered for is Tom Curry’s tackle on Juan Cruz Mallia and the post-match dust-up that followed,” he wrote. “They were ugly scenes no-one wants to see in elite Test rugby, but something tells me we won’t be hearing the last of this.”

RUGBY WORLD CUP DRAW:

Here’s how the Rugby World Cup groups are likely to look based on current rankings.

Pool A

South Africa

South Africa are four-time Rugby World Cup champions (1995, 2007, 2019, 2023) and stand as one of the sport’s most dominant forces. Their combination of physicality, tactical kicking, and disciplined game management has made them a consistent powerhouse.

The Springboks are known for producing world-class forwards and strategic play, and they often enter tournaments as pre-tournament favourites.

Australia

Australia have won the Rugby World Cup twice (1991, 1999) and have a long history of competitive success. They are renowned for skillful backline play, tactical kicking, and adaptability in high-pressure situations.

Although recent campaigns have been inconsistent, the Wallabies remain a team capable of shocking even the strongest opponents.

Georgia

Georgia has competed in every Rugby World Cup since 2003, gaining a reputation for strong forwards and a resilient pack. They are often in the lower half of their pool but have gradually improved against higher-ranked nations.

The Lelos’ physical and uncompromising style has earned them respect and growing recognition in international rugby.

Samoa

Samoa has a proud history in the Rugby World Cup, highlighted by quarterfinal appearances in 1991 and 1995. Known for their flair, physicality, and fearless counterattacking, they can trouble any opponent on their day.

Pool A Storyline: Will South Africa’s experience and strength continue their dominance, or will an underdog like Samoa or Georgia pull off a shock upset?

Pool B

New Zealand

New Zealand are three-time Rugby World Cup champions (1987, 2011, 2015) and are considered one of the greatest rugby teams in history. Their combination of speed, skill, and tactical intelligence has set the global benchmark.

The All Blacks are perennial favourites, consistently challenging for titles and producing some of the sport’s most memorable moments.

Fiji

Fiji is known for its electrifying attacking rugby and offloading brilliance. They have reached the quarterfinal stage twice (1987, 2023) and remain one of the most unpredictable and entertaining teams.

Their flair and unpredictability make Fiji capable of upsetting even the strongest nations on any given day.

Spain

Spain is making its Rugby World Cup debut, emerging as one of Europe’s fastest-growing rugby nations. While inexperienced at this level, they have shown strong technical ability and determination in qualifying tournaments.

Spain’s entry marks a new chapter in European rugby, and they are eager to announce themselves on the global stage.

Portugal

Portugal has qualified for the Rugby World Cup on a few occasions, bringing passion, grit, and an underdog mentality. Their team is known for fighting spirit and physical commitment.

Pool B Storyline: Can Fiji’s flair and unpredictability disrupt the established powerhouses, or will New Zealand assert their dominance as expected?

Pool C

England

England won the Rugby World Cup in 2003 and have consistently been contenders in every tournament since. They are recognized for their structured game, strategic kicking, and strong forward pack.

The team combines veteran leadership with emerging talent, aiming to challenge for another title.

Scotland

Scotland’s best finish came in 1991, reaching fourth place. They are known for a committed, physical style of play and have a long tradition of producing talented forwards.

While often struggling against Tier 1 nations, Scotland brings resilience and tactical awareness to every match.

Uruguay

Uruguay has participated in multiple Rugby World Cups (1999, 2003, 2015, 2019), usually securing one win per tournament. Their strengths lie in strong defense and a hardworking pack.

The Uruguayan side is steadily improving and gaining respect in international rugby circles.

Romania

Romania has qualified for most Rugby World Cups, with a best finish in 1987 reaching the quarterfinals. They are known for their robust forward play and set-piece skills.

Pool C Storyline: Will England’s experience and depth be enough to dominate, or could a resilient underdog like Uruguay or Scotland steal a headline result?

Pool D

Ireland

Ireland has reached the quarterfinals or better in most recent tournaments, with their best finish being third place in 2023. Known for tactical kicking, strong defense, and skilled backs, they are a modern rugby powerhouse.

Ireland combines disciplined gameplay with strategic flair, making them tough opponents for any team.

Wales

Wales reached the semifinals in 1987 and 2011, with consistent quarterfinal appearances in other tournaments. They are known for powerful forward play and dynamic backs.

The Welsh team blends tradition with athleticism, aiming to compete strongly in any pool.

USA

The USA has participated in every Rugby World Cup since 1987 but has yet to reach the knockout stages. They are known for athleticism and increasingly competitive domestic talent.

American rugby is on the rise, with growing infrastructure and player development programs.

Hong Kong China

Hong Kong China is making its first Rugby World Cup appearance. They bring a growing rugby culture in Asia and a highly disciplined, fast-paced style of play.

Pool D Storyline: Can Ireland and Wales assert their dominance, or will the rising forces of USA and Hong Kong make surprising waves?

Pool E

France

France has been runners-up four times (1987, 1999, 2011, 2023) and is one of the sport’s most stylish and unpredictable sides. They combine flair, physicality, and a passionate fan base.

Les Bleus often perform best in front of home crowds, where their creativity and intensity peak.

Italy

Italy has participated in every World Cup since 1987, though rarely advancing past the pool stage. Known for solid forward play and defensive effort, they occasionally challenge stronger nations.

Italian rugby has been steadily improving, focusing on physicality and tactical discipline.

Chile

Chile is a first-time qualifier, bringing youthful energy and fast, attacking rugby. They are growing as a South American rugby force.

Their debut represents an exciting milestone in South American rugby development.

Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe last appeared in 2003 and has a history of strong regional competition. Their style emphasizes gritty forward play and passion.

Pool E Storyline: Will France’s flair carry them to the top, or can an emerging team like Chile or Italy produce an upset?

Pool F

Argentina

Argentina’s best finish came in 2007, reaching third place. They are renowned for passionate play, strong scrummaging, and tactical innovation.

The Pumas consistently challenge traditional powerhouses and are feared for their physicality.

Japan

Japan reached the quarterfinals in 2019, famously defeating South Africa. They are known for speed, tactical awareness, and skillful backline play.

Japanese rugby continues to grow rapidly, making them dangerous opponents in any pool match.

Tonga

Tonga’s best RWC finish was the quarterfinals in 1995. They are known for physicality, unpredictability, and Pacific flair that can trouble top teams.

Their matches are always intense and unpredictable, offering potential for upsets.

Canada

Canada reached the quarterfinals in 1991 and has since been a regular participant. Known for strong forward play and a hardworking mentality, they are often underestimated.

Pool F Storyline: Will Argentina and Japan assert their status as favorites, or could Tonga or Canada stage a surprise?

Quiz: Name these 10 retro rugby players

From jaw-dropping tries to unforgettable moments (and yes, some questionable haircuts), these players defined a golden era of the game. If their names don’t instantly come to mind, we suggest a quick trip to YouTube to jog your memory. Trust us, it’s worth it.

Ready to test your knowledge? Let’s see if you’ve still got it. Good luck!