Ireland captain Brian O'Driscoll believes that his side failed to fulfil their potential during this morning's quarter-final loss to Wales.

Despite entering into the match as slight favourites, Declan Kidney's side eventually slumped to a 22-10 loss and now exit the competition.

"It was a great opportunity for us after winning the group," said the Irish skipper. "We needed to deliver a performance similar to those against Australia and Italy but we turned over too much ball.

"Wales took their scores very well and showed they are worthy semi-finals and good luck to them.

"We got outplayed in the second half, they scored two good tries, maybe there was some weak defence but we are very disappointed to be going home."

Wales will now play France in next weekend's semi-final after they defeated England earlier today.