Rugby’s end-of-year internationals continue this weekend as world heavyweights lock horns across Europe, chasing momentum before the 2027 World Cup.
Week one of the November Tests delivered drama and performances that reshaped the latest World Rugby Rankings. Now, as the northern hemisphere braces for another rugby-filled weekend, round two promises even fiercer battles.
With the 2027 Rugby World Cup draw just a month away, teams are sharpening their combinations and measuring progress carefully. This weekend’s fixtures offer a window into global rugby’s shifting balance, as southern giants continue their traditional northern tours with intent.
The action spans from Dublin to Paris and beyond, where proud hosts aim to defend home turf against travelling titans. As teams refine structures and test depth, supporters worldwide are reminded why November remains rugby’s most captivating month of the year.
Rugby’s Northern Cauldrons Heat Up
Saturday’s lineup reads like a festival of rugby, with every contest carrying both pride and strategic significance.
Proceedings begin early at the Adjarabet Arena, where Georgia faces the United States in a match of contrasting ambitions. Ireland (1.00) then welcome Japan (17.00) to the Aviva Stadium, eager to extend their momentum after an impressive start to the season.
Scotland (3.25) and New Zealand (1.35) meet next at Murrayfield, a fixture that always stirs memories of flair and unpredictability. Later in the day, Italy (5.20) and Australia (1.16) clash in Udine, where the Azzurri seek to measure their growth against their established pedigree. At the same time, England (1.02) hosts Fiji (12.00) at Allianz Stadium, with the Pacific Islanders chasing another famous upset in London.
The highlight comes in Paris, where France (2.05) and world champions South Africa (1.79) renew their rivalry at the Stade de France. Their last meeting was a classic, and anticipation builds as both sides test new combinations amid the Parisian roar.
Minnows Ready To Star Beyond The Big Stage
While the spotlight shines brightest on the Autumn Nations fixtures, several compelling encounters unfold outside the traditional tier-one calendar.
In Bucharest, Romania host Canada hosts in a game steeped in tradition and physicality, as both sides look to build consistency. Portugal meets Uruguay at Estádio Nacional do Jamor, continuing their rise as one of Europe’s most entertaining attacking teams.
Meanwhile, Colombia and Mexico square off at Estadio Cincuentenario, representing the growing footprint of international rugby across the Americas.
These fixtures may lack the scale of headline clashes, yet they play an equally vital role in expanding the global game. Each nation seeks precious ranking points and invaluable experience against comparable opposition ahead of future qualification campaigns.
Sunday Brings A Grand Finale
The weekend concludes in Cardiff, where Wales host Argentina at the Millennium Stadium in a match brimming with intrigue.
Wales (5.20), under pressure to rediscover form, face a Pumas (1.16) side renowned for their intensity and passion on foreign soil. The encounter promises a bruising forward contest and tactical chess between two proud rugby nations seeking a statement victory.
Fans can expect a cauldron atmosphere as Cardiff’s famous choir voices echo through one of world rugby’s most iconic venues. Sunday’s finale closes a weekend that underscores the sport’s reach and the fierce pride that fuels every Test jersey.
Complete Week Two Fixture List
Below is the full line-up for the second weekend of the 2025 end-of-year internationals, featuring kick-off times and venues.
Saturday, 8 November
- Georgia vs USA at 1:00 pm (Adjarabet Arena, Batumi)
- Ireland vs Japan at 1:40 pm (Aviva Stadium, Dublin)
- Colombia vs Mexico at 4:00pm (Estadio Cincuentenario, MedellÍn)
- Romania vs Canada at 4:00pm (Stadionul Național Arcul de Triumf, Bucharest)
- Portugal vs Uruguay at 4:00 pm (Estádio Nacional do Jamor, Lisbon)
- Scotland vs New Zealand at 4:10 pm (Murrayfield, Edinburgh)
- Italy vs Australia at 6:40 pm (Bluenergy Stadium, Rome)
- England vs Fiji at 6:40 pm (Twickenham Stadium, London)
- France vs South Africa at 9:10 pm (Stade de France, Paris)
Sunday, 9 November
- Wales vs Argentina at 4:10 pm (Millennium Stadium, Cardiff)
