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The Netherlands defeated Belgium today to advance in the RWC 2023 qualifiers. The 23-21 victory was a rollercoaster ride. The win came via a penalty from center David Weersma with four minutes remaining.
In defeating Belgium, the Netherlands have secured a place in the 2021 Rugby Europe Championship. They join Georgia, Portugal, Romania, Russia, and Spain. The Six Nations competition doubles as RWC 2023 qualifiers.
The Netherlands’ five opponents began the RWC 2023 qualifiers earlier this year. Georgia is well-placed to qualify directly for France 2023 as Europe 1. The runner-up will also qualify for RWC 2023, doing so as Europe 2. Romania are presently in second position.
The Netherlands’ first match will be on June 26 against Georgia. They will play subsequent RWC 2023 qualifiers in July and November. All six competitors have everything to play for. In addition to the Europe 1 and Europe 2 places at RWC 2023, Europe 3 will compete in repechage.
Europe 1 will compete in Pool C of RWC 2023. The successful qualifier will join Australia, Fiji, Wales and the repechage qualifier in the group. Europe 2 will join Ireland, Scotland, South Africa and Asia / Pacific 1 in Pool B.
🇳🇱 | A late penalty takes the Netherlands into the 2021 Rugby Europe Championship, what a game and what a finish! pic.twitter.com/mAvmLFmbzX
— Rugby Europe (@rugby_europe) May 29, 2021
