World Rugby Nations Cup 2026: Round Three Preview
Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail
The World Rugby Nations Cup 2026 enters the third and final round of its Americas leg this weekend, with six matches scheduled across Montevideo, Uruguay, and Winnipeg, Canada.
Several teams remain in contention to finish the opening stage on a high, while others are aiming to secure their first victory of the tournament.
Teams Chasing Strong Finish
After two rounds of action:
- Chile, USA, and Georgia remain unbeaten with two wins each.
- Samoa, Tonga, Spain, and Portugal are seeking a second tournament victory.
- Uruguay, Canada, Romania, Zimbabwe, and Hong Kong China are looking for their first win.
Fans will be able to watch the matches live through the tournament’s official broadcast partners where available.
Samoa vs Romania
Venue: Estadio Charrúa, Montevideo
Samoa will look to bounce back after its defeat to Georgia in Round Two, while Romania aims to earn its first victory following an entertaining draw with Uruguay.
Romania has made two changes to its starting lineup, while Samoa has introduced three changes as both teams prepare for an important final pool-stage match.
Uruguay vs Hong Kong China
Venue: Estadio Charrúa, Montevideo
Uruguay enters the match after recording a narrow defeat to Georgia and a draw with Romania. The team has shown attacking promise, scoring 11 tries in its first two matches.
Hong Kong China, despite remaining winless, has gained valuable experience against higher-ranked opposition and will look to finish the opening stage with a positive result.
Uruguay has made one change to its starting side, while Hong Kong China has announced six changes.
Chile vs Georgia
Venue: CARR Mahuida, Santiago
One of the most anticipated fixtures of the weekend features unbeaten Chile and Georgia, the current leaders of their respective pools.
Originally scheduled for La Serena, the match has been moved to Santiago because of weather conditions.
Georgia enters the contest after defeating Samoa, while Chile earned its second consecutive victory with an impressive attacking display.
Chile has made four changes to its starting lineup, while Georgia has retained the same starting XV that won in Round Two.
Tonga vs Portugal
Venue: Princess Auto Stadium, Winnipeg
Tonga and Portugal meet for only the second time in international competition.
Tonga will be looking to recover after its defeat to Spain, while Portugal arrives with confidence following a convincing victory over Canada in Round Two.
Portugal has won eight of its last nine international matches and will aim to continue that strong form.
Both teams have made changes to their starting lineups ahead of the encounter.
Final Weekend of the Americas Leg
The final round of the Americas stage is expected to determine the standings before the tournament moves to its next phase.
With unbeaten records, first victories, and momentum all on the line, the concluding matches promise competitive rugby across both host venues as teams look to finish the opening leg on a positive note.
