Rugby fans nationwide will be glued to their television screens today as the 2007 World Cup kicks off.
The opening game will see hosts France take on Argentina in Paris, while Ireland's first clash will be against Namibia on Sunday.
Head coach Eddie O'Sullivan yesterday named Brian O'Driscoll, who has recovered from a broken sinus bone he suffered in a warm-up with French team Bayonne last month, to lead Ireland in their opening encounter.
The Irish squad's crunch clashes will be against France on September 21st and Argentina on September 30th. Ireland has never before made it past the quarter finals stage and optimism is high that this could be their year.
Thousands of Irish fans are expected to travel to Bordeaux this weekend, where players and officials are based for the squad's opening games.
The Department of Foreign Affairs has established a temporary consulate in the French city to offer consular services.