Wales forwards coach Robin McBryde has acknowledged that his side will have to 'be at their best' if they are to overcome Ireland at the Millennium Stadium this weekend.
The Red Dragons head into the game with their slim hopes of claiming the Six Nations crown hanging in the balance, while the visitors travel to Cardiff in the knowledge that victory will keep them on track to secure a famous Grand Slam triumph.
Josef Schmidt's men have become a real force in recent times, winning their last 10 games in a row which has led to claims from fellow Wales coach Shaun Edwards that Saturday's opponents are currently the best side in Europe.
McBryde agrees with these comments, telling reporters: "They're on a bit of a roll at the moment, so that in itself speaks volumes. From the outside it looks a very happy camp.
"They're up to third in the rankings so on that basis you have to say yes, this is a pretty formidable Ireland team. We will have to be at our best to come close to them tomorrow."
Ireland's 19-9 victory over England last time out has seen them move clear at the top of the current championship standings, and they can kill off any dwindling Welsh hopes of claiming a third title in four years should they prevail in the big showdown.
"It's a big game," McBryde added. "Ireland and Wales have been fighting for a fair bit of silverware over the past few years in the Six Nations. Not being disrespectful to anyone else, but we have been two of the better sides in the Six Nations.
"On their day both sides are capable of beating anybody. We know what a win will give us - a chance to go for the championship - and by doing that we will also stop Ireland from winning the Grand Slam. It is all about what we can achieve and gain rather than anything else."
Ireland won last year's meeting 26-3 at the Aviva Stadium.
Daniel Lewis
