Had qualification for the World Cup been decided by population, Spain would only just have made it for the past seven tournaments. Ranked 31st by that metric, they lag behind Myanmar, Sudan and Colomb

The experts on their nations’ chances – and the matches that could be key to success

Gregor Townsend’s men hope to change hearts and minds after their autumn setbacks

Laden with talent, the ever-improving Azzurri are closing the gap on the major powers

The end. The collapse. The exhaustion of 11 Arsenal players, slumping to the turf against the glittering backdrop of a Toon foil display. Mikel Arteta’s thousand-yard stare. Granit Xhaka’s chevron bro

Can Andy Farrell’s ageing team rediscover their mojo when it matters most?