Georgia and Chile lead the way as Europe dominates Rugby World Cup qualifying Nations Cup

Georgia and Chile are the early pace-setters at the World Rugby Nations Cup in Viña del Mar, Chile, with both sides topping their pools after two rounds of Rugby World Cup qualifying action.

Chile’s Pool A lead was built on a commanding 38-17 victory over Hong Kong China at Estadio Sausalito, a match that saw the Asian side undone by a catastrophic disciplinary record — four yellow cards and a red card for 20-year-old lock Lachlan Doheny, who was dismissed after receiving his second yellow. Chile took control as early as the eighth minute through a penalty try and never relinquished it, running in six tries in total. No.8 Raimundo Martinez crossed twice, while prop Inaki Gurruchaga, reserve scrumhalf Marcelo Torrealba and winger Nicolas Saab also scored.

In Pool B, seven-time Rugby World Cup qualifiers Georgia produced a composed 33-12 win over Samoa, also at Estadio Sausalito. Fly-half Luka Matkava contributed four penalties, with Georgia leading for 94 per cent of the contest — a statement performance from a side with serious pedigree in the qualification process.

Round two was broadly a triumph for the European nations. Portugal were the standout performers, dismantling Canada 38-14 at Clarke Stadium in Edmonton. Inside centre Tomas Appleton scored twice, midfield partner Guilherme Vasconcelos added another, and right wing Raffaele Storti also grabbed a brace as Portugal’s backline caused problems throughout.

Spain defeated Tonga 32-19, while Romania and Uruguay produced a breathless 36-all draw — a result that denied Romania a clean sweep but underlined the competitive quality on show across the pools.

USA recovered from a 15-12 half-time deficit against Zimbabwe to win 31-15, with left wing Perry Mayo scoring a standout first-half try before Nathan Den Hoedt and Cory Daniel extended the advantage in the second period. Former Connacht fly-half Jack Carty contributed three penalties to seal the result.

Heading into round three, USA, Georgia and Chile remain the only undefeated teams in the competition, setting up a compelling final stretch of qualifying action.