It really is becoming do or die for a lot of sides, with most pools hotly contested. Pool A sees Australia and PNG as the sides most likely to make it into the final eight, but France and South Africa both have the power to make things difficult for whoever loses the match between Australia and PNG. Pool B is clear-cut, whilst Pool C could prove interesting with AA/TSI, Wales, Tonga, and Scotland all vying for two positions. And where England looked assured in the earlier stages, the Lions now need to fight off New Zealand and an exuberant Fijian side if they're to contest the finals.

The big match in Pool A takes place in what should be a packed out Aussie Stadium. Australia have been shaky in the World Cup so far, with a loss, a shaky win, and one dominant one. Which side will turn up to take on an injury battered Kumul pack? With the weight of a nation on their backs, Australia should get home.
Australia by 10

Another crunch game takes place in Pool A, with France and South Africa on one win each. The winner of this clash has a chance to push for a finals berth, so there is plenty on the line for two resurgent nations. France will be out to make up for their 40-10 loss to Australia, whilst the South Africans will be doing the opposite and trying to recapture their form from the Aussie game.
France by 4

The big clashes continue on Group B, with the Irish Wolfhounds taking on the also undefeated European side. Both sides are level on points and have shown plenty of flare in their games thus far, so the battle at the MCG will virtually decide first and second in the pool. Even without Carney, the Irish should be able to assert their authority.
Ireland by 14

Samoa, although winless, have been a solid side in their opening games- only going down by narrow margins to better opposition. The Samoans will therefore be hoping that their tie against Germany can bring some points their way. The Germans have been sloppy since their loss to Japan in the lead-up to the World Cup.
Samoa by 8

In Pool C, the Welsh will look to continue the winning trend with a big match against the AA/TSI side. AA/TSI and Scotland look to be the most likely promoters, but if Tonga and Wales can spring upsets this week- which they're capable of- they could shock the leaders and move into the forefront. With the likes of Cunningham, Harris, and Briers- Wales can do it.
Wales by 4

The other match in Pool C is a usurper vs. leader as well, with first placed Scotland doing battle with fourth placed Tonga. The Tongans have shown their backline is a dangerous weapon, and will be hoping that their strength can target Scotland's weak backline for a win. However, the Scottish forward pack has been astounding, and should see Scotland through.
Scotland by 12

The biggest match of the World Cup so far is undoubtedly England vs. New Zealand, with both sides at risk of missing the final if their lose this clash. The English, aside from a minor struggle with Fiji, have been the best side in their pool, but New Zealand have the power to upset the English. An intriguing clash between super-boots Mehrtens and Wilkinson is also promised, but the English should get home on their defence.
England by 1

The winless Lebanese will look to impress their 'home' crowd by upsetting the masters of the upset, the Fijian Batis. Fiji have hammered New Zealand and out-defended England in their first two clashes- and have proven to be the big surprise packets of the World Cup. Lebanon have some class, but the Fijian backline should spell the end for all hopes of consecutive finals berths for the Lebanese Cedars.
Fiji by 18