Namibia put boot into Ireland

Namibia captain Kees Lensing has taken a dig at Ireland boss Eddie O'Sullivan by declaring France are a ‘better coached side’.

A 87-10 victory against the Africans has reignited France's World Cup ambitions but they can not afford to slip up in Friday's Pool D clash against the Irish.

Namibia have played both teams - they only lost 32-17 to Ireland in their tournament opener - and insists the hosts are a far more formidable outfit.

The former Leeds prop, who now plays for Natal, said: ‘France are a much better side - and a better coached side as well.

‘If they stick to their game plan they can go all the way. They have more skill, are more solid and are better trained. I think their team can go all the way if they're motivated enough.’

Namibia coach Hakkies Husselman agreed with his skipper and tipped France as possible winners.

He said: ‘We put Ireland under pressure and they made mistakes.

‘The French are at a higher point at this stage and were the better side on the day when we played them. France will be close to winning the World Cup.’