In many ways Ireland's game against France yesterday was a must win for Andy Farrell's side. Not only would it put them in a strong position to win a first Six Nations title since 2018, but it could also hand them a psychological edge ahead of a potential meeting between the teams at the World Cup later this year.
There is no doubt that they were fully deserving of their victory at the Aviva Stadium. Ireland were the better side for the vast majority of the game, ultimately running in four tries to secure a bonus point victory.
They now look like heavy favourites to win the tournament, with a potential Grand Slam also in the offing.
As for what this means for France, opinions on that may vary.
Lawrence Dallaglio has interesting take on France's loss to Ireland
While many will view yesterday's fixture as an example of Ireland's superiority over the French, others will look at it in a different manner.
Speaking on ITV this afternoon, Lawrence Dallaglio said that believes that the loss could actually benefit France in the long run as the identify the holes in their game ahead of the World Cup.
Make no mistake, Ireland have got the best attacking structure and shape.
Most of their players play for one province in Leinster. Their understanding of where to go, who to resource the rucks, they see things that other teams aren't seeing at the moment. They are the hardest team to defend against.
For me, there was an inevitability about yesterday. I thought they were good for a 10-12 point win actually, because they were just relentless in their attacking play in the second half.
Eventually France will recognise that they're a very good side, but their tight five need to be a tiny bit fitter if they are going to win the World Cup...
They were the last team to beat Ireland in the Six Nations, so there was that bit of extra motivation (for Ireland) playing in Dublin. There wasn't a whole lot between the two sides, France played some superb rugby.
There are still a few months to go (until the World Cup).
Ireland certainly seem slightly ahead of France at the moment in terms of their level of play, especially when you consider that they were missing some key personnel for yesterday's game.
However, there is a long way to go until the World Cup. Not only can a lot change on and off the pitch before then, but the home advantage France will have at the tournament could yet play a big part in deciding the eventual winners.
It should be a hugely exciting year of rugby ahead.
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