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Irish Mirror
Irish Mirror
Sport
Eamon Doggett

How can Ireland win the Six Nations? The permutations explained ahead of the final round of matches

Ireland go into the final round of matches in the 2022 Six Nations with a chance of capturing the title.

While a 30-24 defeat in Paris ended Ireland's chances of the Grand Slam, Andy Farrell's side could still pip France to the Championship, although they need England to do them a favour.

Regardless of an Ireland win over Scotland on Saturday, France know that a win over England in Paris (8pm) will seal the Grand Slam and the Six Nations title.

Any slip-ups from the French and Ireland are the only other side in with a mathematical chance of taking the title. They currently sit two points behind France but have a superior points difference (84 plays 56) and have been helped by comprehensive bonus point wins over Italy, Wales and England.

A view of the Aviva Stadium ahead of the match between Ireland and Scotland (©INPHO/Billy Stickland)

It means that if France lose without a bonus point of any kind in Paris, a draw or two bonus points (four tries plus losing by seven or less) would be all Ireland need against Scotland to bag the title. The more simple scenario is that an Irish win and French defeat would give Ireland the title.

There is also the scenario in which the French draw with England and Ireland beat Scotland without securing a try bonus point. Both sides would finish the Championship on 20 points but Ireland would win the title due to a superior points difference.

Andy Farrell's side also know that the worst position they can finish in the table is second place, although that will likely be scant compensation if they come up short in their bid to lift the Six Nations trophy.

Simply put, Ireland need to beat Scotland (4.45pm) and then cheer on England to cause France some problems under the lights of the Stade de France.

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