Scotland vs Romania Prediction and Betting Tips

🏈 Rugby World Cup 2023 Match Preview

⏰ 30 September 2023 - 20:00 GMT +1

⏰ 1 October 2023 - 05:00 AEST

🏟 Stadium - Stade Pierre-Mauroy (Villeneuve d'Ascq)

Scotland and Romania meet for the 14th time on Saturday in Lille, having previously clashed at the 1987, 2007 and 2011 Rugby World Cups. Scotland have won 11 of the past meetings, with Romania's last victory coming back in 1991. While Scotland responded to their opening loss to South Africa by beating Tonga 45-17, Romania have been eliminated after heavy defeats.

It was an impressive performance from Scotland, securing a bonus point win for the 10th straight World Cup pool match. Winger Duhan van der Merwe was immense with 14 defenders beaten, but is one of 13 changes to the XV.

Wing Kyle Steyn and center Chris Harris are the only starters retained from the Tonga win. Coach Gregor Townsend expects the new lineup to be motivated by both playing at the World Cup and staking a claim for the decisive Ireland clash. He says the "best way to influence selection is going out and playing well."

With Jamie Ritchie injured, lock Gary Gilchrist will captain the side. Scotland will again target a bonus point to stay in contention for the quarterfinals.

That is already out of reach for Romania after opening losses to Ireland and South Africa. They haven't scored since the 22nd minute against Ireland across both defeats.

The stats make for painful reading. Romania have the worst 22 exit and points per entry into opposition 22 percentages. Injuries have also taken a toll, with centers Taylor Gontineac and Hinckley Vaovasa ruled out. However, Sioeli Lama and Taliauli Sikuea will make their World Cup debuts.

📋 Players to watch:

• Ollie Smith scored his first Scotland try against Australia and will fancy adding to that.
• Scrum-half Gabriel Rupanu impressed with Romania's quick start against Ireland.

⚡ Match Facts:

• Scotland won 45-17 vs Tonga. Romania outscored 158-0 by Ireland and South Africa.
• Scotland need bonus point wins to pursue quarterfinal spot.
• Romania have awful defensive stats and several injury absences.
• Scotland have won 11 of 14 past meetings. Romania's last win was in 1991.
• Romania have lost 10 of their last 11 World Cup matches.

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💡 Match Prediction:

Scotland should win comfortably even with 13 changes. Their bonus point win over Tonga shows their squad depth. Romania were overwhelmed by Ireland and South Africa. Injuries and poor stats indicate they will struggle. Scotland need to keep their quarterfinal hopes alive, so will target a big win. Prediction: Scotland by 25-30 points.

Betting Tips:

Point Spread: Scotland -22.5

• Scotland should cover a 3.5 touchdown spread. Romania's poor defense will be exploited.

Moneyline: Scotland -2000, Romania +1000

• No value with heavy favorite Scotland at -2000. Romania offer some value at +1000 but upset highly unlikely.

Total Points: Over/Under 51.5

• Take the OVER. Scotland should reach 30+ and Romania's leaky defense will lead to points.