The finalists from four years ago – and the finalists from the last time that Rugby World Cup was hosted by France – meet a round earlier in 2023. With both teams showcasing their mettle, the match promises to be a showdown of epic proportions, rekindling the spirits of their past encounters and setting the stage for an enthralling rugby spectacle. Never miss the match so, How can I watch it? England vs South Africa live stream free?
England vs South Africa Match Details
What it is: Rugby World Cup 2023
Stage: Semi-final 2
Matchup: England vs South Africa
WORLD RANKING: England (5th), South Africa (1st)
Time: Sunday, 22 October 2023, 21:00 Local Time, 3 PM ET, 6 AM AEDT, 8 PM UK
Stadium: Stade de France, Saint-Denis
Capacity: 80,000
Referee: Ben O’Keeffe (New Zealand)
England vs South Africa Team News
As the Rugby World Cup 2023 reaches its fever pitch, all eyes are fixated on the upcoming clash between England and South Africa in the much-anticipated semi-final 2. Set to take place at the colossal Stade de France in Saint-Denis, this exhilarating battle is primed to be a spectacle of strength, strategy, and sheer determination.
England
England have been one of the most impressive teams in the tournament so far, with their clinical and calculating approach proving to be highly effective. They have a strong set of forwards who are able to dominate the gain line, and their backs are clinical in finishing off their chances.
England’s captain, Owen Farrell, is the key to their game. He is a world-class fly-half who is able to control the tempo of the match and dictate terms to the opposition. He is also a superb kicker, and his ability to score points from the boot could be crucial in a tight match.
Freddie Steward; Jonny May, Joe Marchant, Manu Tuilagi, Elliot Daly; Owen Farrell (captain), Alex Mitchell; Joe Marler, Jamie George, Dan Cole; Maro Itoje, George Martin; Courtney Lawes, Tom Curry, Ben Earl
Replacements: Theo Dan, Ellis Genge, Kyle Sinckler, Ollie Chessum, Billy Vunipola, Danny Care, George Ford, Ollie Lawrence
South Africa
South Africa are the reigning world champions, and they will be determined to retain their title. They are a powerful and physical team who are renowned for their forward play. Their scrum is one of the best in the world, and their lineout is a major weapon.
South Africa’s captain, Siya Kolisi, is a talismanic figure who leads by example. He is a world-class flanker who is able to make a big impact on both sides of the ball.
Damian Willemse; Kurt-Lee Arendse, Jesse Kriel, Damian de Allende, Cheslin Kolbe; Manie Libbok, Cobus Reinach; Steven Kitshoff, Mbongeni Mbonambi, Frans Malherbe; Eben Etzebeth, Franco Mostert; Siya Kolisi (captain), Pieter-Steph Du Toit, Duane Vermeulen
Replacements: Deon Fourie, Ox Nche, Vincent Koch, RG Snyman, Kwagga Smith, Faf de Klerk, Handré Pollard, Willie le Roux
The match is likely to be decided by the battle between the two packs. England’s forwards will be looking to dominate the gain line, while South Africa’s forwards will be looking to disrupt England’s ball and slow down their tempo.
The battle at fly-half will also be key. Farrell is a world-class operator, but he will be up against a formidable opponent in Damian Willemse. Willemse is a talented young fly-half who is capable of creating something out of nothing.
Prediction
This is a match that is too close to call. Both teams are evenly matched, and they will both be desperate to reach the final. However, England’s clinical and calculating approach may just give them the edge.
Possible Score
England 23-20 South Africa
