Hosts France launch their quest for a first World Cup trophy against three-time champions New Zealand on Friday night. Around 80,000 fans are expected at the Stade de France for a blockbuster start to the 10th World Cup competition and seven weeks of action featuring the planet's best rugby players.
The venue just to the north of Paris will also stage the final on 28 October when the Webb Ellis trophy – named after the supposed inventor of the game – will be presented to the victorious skipper.
