South Africa will be out to book their place in a second successive World Cup final when they take on England at the Stade de France in their semi-final on Saturday.
South Africa v England
Saturday 21 October
Stade de France
South Africa 2/13 | Draw 28/1 | England 4/1
The reigning world champions produced one of their best performances in the Rasnaber era to see off a brilliant French outfit 29-28 a week ago. Despite an inspired showing from Antoine Dupont, the hosts bowed out in a game that would have been fit for the final itself.
The way Siya Kolisi’s men withstood the pressure of the occasion was nothing short of remarkable, with their excellent decision making and execution underpinning everything they did well. In particular, their defence functioned superbly and shut down a number of French attacking opportunities, especially in the second-half.
While England will certainly be no pushovers, they have looked pretty ordinary in the tournament so far and, if not for a Man of the Match showing from the great Owen Farrell, may have come unstuck against a hungry Fijian side in their quarterfinal.
With rain expected in Saint-Denis on the weekend, the set piece and kicking duels will be cardinal. Based on what we’ve seen over the course of the past weeks of action, that should play into the South Africans’ hands.
Although they may be stretched to clear the handicap on Saturday, the men in green and gold should manage to hold out for a comfortable win and secure a shot at rugby immortality.
Verdict: England (+13.5) 4/5
