Stephen Kenny admitted that tomorrow's game would be the biggest test of his tenure, but is convinced that his side will give themselves every opportunity of securing a historic result against France at Parc des Princes.
Ireland need to get vital points on the board over the upcoming double-header with games against the World Cup runners-up tomorrow night followed by a decisive Dutch encounter on Sunday night in Dublin.
And while the manager acknowleged that it was going to be a very tough task to get something from the clash with the Group B table-toppers, he said that he was relishing the challenge and excited by it.
"I would say it is," said Kenny, when asked whether this game was the biggest challenge he has faced as Ireland manager. "France have been to last two World Cup finals, so they are definitely in the two best teams in world, if not the best.
"We have to respect their talent and to come into their backyard, their home arena, playing them presents a stiff challenge, and one that we understand is difficult. But we are very excited by it as well and we understand that it is an opportunity for us.
"I have every confidence in the players and they showed their quality in the game against France in Dublin, which was a very even affair overall. France had more possession, but chances created was pretty even.
"It’s different coming to Paris, we understand that. A different challenge and we are missing several of our players, but it increases the motivation to put in a strong performance and that’s certainly our intention."
Evan Ferguson, of course, is the latest and perhaps most significant player to be ruled out of the double-header, but the manager would not entertain the idea that he is due some good luck following a dramatic three years in charge.
"I don’t really look at it like that. I am very privileged to manage Ireland," said Kenny. "In the attacking players, five of them are missing – Mikey Johnston, Michael Obafemi, Troy Parrott, Callum Robbinson and Evan Ferguson.
"Because we have given 18 players their debut in that period of two years it has increased squad depth and it means that we still have a strong team, and I’m very happy with the team we have for tomorrow and the options that we have."
While the manager might be happy with the players at his disposal, he is also very conscious of the fact that his side are massive underdogs going into the game.
"We know that not many people give us a chance, and I understand that, but we are going to give ourselves every opportunity, prepare well and perform to the level that we need to, and put in a really strong performance tomorrow night."
In team news, the manager said that John Egan has yet to fully train with the squad following the injury that he picked up at the weekend playing with his club Sheffield United.
"[John] had to get intensive treatment during the week, and he hasn’t partaken in full training yet," said Kenny. "We are due to train this evening and we are hoping that it goes well and that he is ok and can play tomorrow.
Southampton left-back Ryan Manning and Liverpool goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher are also struggling with "different strains", however, the manager is hopeful that both will be available for selection.
Andrew Omobamidele joined up with the squad on Wednesday due to a family bereavement.
Ireland play France on the eve of the opening game of the Rugby World Cup, which is taking place in in Paris on Friday night as the host nation take on New Zealand, and Kenny was asked by a local journalist for his thoughts on his rugby counterparts ahead of the tournament.
"Ireland have done brilliantly and deserved their number one status in the world and come with a strong chance of competing for the trophy," said Kenny. "They have said that themselves and are confident.
"France are very good too and they are two of the main teams in contention."
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