Portugal through to Rugby World Cup as USA dumped out

Portugal have qualified for the 2023 Rugby World Cup in France after drawing with the USA in their crunch match in Dubai with the final kick of the game.

Portugal secured their place with the 16-16 result in the last match of the Final Qualification Tournament in Dubai.

They finish first of the last qualifier on points difference and become the final team to qualify for France 2023. Portugal will take part in their second Rugby World Cup after 2007 and join Australia, Wales, Fiji and Georgia in Pool C.

It means the USA – who will host the tournament on 2031, miss out for the first time since 1995.

It means Portugal will take their place in Pool C at RWC 2023, alongside Wales, Australia, Fiji and Georgia.

“It’s hard to explain, it’s one of the best feelings in the world,” Portugal captain Tomás Appleton said. “For the rugby community this is amazing, we’ve been missing [from Rugby World Cup] for quite some time and we need a new generation to inspire the kids.”

Earlier on Friday, Hong Kong mounted a second-half comeback to beat Kenya 22-18 and claim third place in the standings.