Rob Kearney scored a crucial try to inspire Ireland to a 24-9 win over France in the World Cup Pool D decider that condemned the French to a quarter final against champions New Zealand.
Ireland won despite losing Jonny Sexton, captain Paul O’Connell and Peter O’Mahony to serious injuries during the unforgiving encounter at Cardiff’s Millennium Stadium.
As Pool D winners, Ireland, unbeaten in four games, play Argentina in the last eight next weekend.