Namibia preview

The ultimate minnow nation, Namibia are heading to their fourth consecutive Rugby World Cup.

The ultimate minnow nation, Namibia are heading to their fourth consecutive Rugby World Cup. The Welwitschias are yet to taste victory at rugby's showpiece event and have been on the end of some of the tournament's heaviest defeats (142-0 to Australia). Namibia qualified for this year's Cup with victory over Ivory Coast, but a win over South Africa, Wales, Fiji or Samoa looks to be highly unlikely.

Strengths

Namibia should hold their own around the breakdown and will look to play for territory with the little possession they manage to obtain. If they can generate a bit of continuity through repeat phases they might cross for a couple of consolation tries.

Weaknesses

Defence will once again be an issue for Namibia. They did manage to reduce their total points against from 310 at the 2003 World Cup to 212 in 2007, but when you concede an average of 53 points a game there's little chance of victory. They may be able to defend reasonably well for 40 or 50 minutes, but look for the floodgates to open in the final quarter.