Key Takeaways:
- England is set for a semi-final clash against the reigning champions, South Africa.
- A victory against South Africa could lead to a final against either New Zealand or Argentina.
- Recent match records hint at both challenges and opportunities for the English side.
England’s Journey to the Semi-Finals
England has successfully carved a path to the Rugby World Cup semi-finals in France. Under the guidance of Steve Borthwick, the team secured their spot by clinching a hard-fought 30-24 victory over Fiji. With an undefeated run in the tournament, the English side is now gearing up for a challenging face-off against the Springboks, who are keen on defending their title.
“They don’t go out there to pick a team.”
“Itoje kept on covering the ball and there was no penalty.”
– Simon Raiwalui and Waisea Nayacalevu had very different reactions to some calls against Fiji in their Rugby World Cup quarter-final loss to England. #Fiji #RWC2023 #ENGvFIJ pic.twitter.com/r17tyQxdKw
— RugbyPass (@RugbyPass) October 15, 2023
Looking Ahead: Potential Final Showdowns
Should England outpace South Africa, their next challenge in the final could come from either New Zealand or Argentina. Both these teams have made it to the semi-finals by besting British opponents. New Zealand narrowly defeated Ireland with a score of 28-24, thus ending the rugby journey for the retiring star, Johnny Sexton. On the other side, Argentina surprised many by securing a last-minute win against Warren Gatland’s Wales.
While New Zealand and Argentina are preparing for their semi-final clash in Paris, the odds seem to favor the Kiwis, given their consistent performance.
England’s Past Encounters: An Insight
If England squares off against New Zealand in the final, history indicates a tough contest. Since 2013, the All Blacks have won six out of the eight matches between the two nations. Nevertheless, a glimmer of hope emerges for England as they managed to draw and win their last two encounters against the Kiwis, the most recent game ending in a 25-25 stalemate in November 2022.
In contrast, if Argentina becomes England’s opponent in the grand finale, the English team might feel more optimistic. Their recent records showcase a strong performance against the South Americans, having defeated them in the Pool A opener of this tournament and winning nine out of their last ten games.
This coming Saturday:
Cricket world cup 2023:
South Africa 🇿🇦 vs England 🇬🇧
10:00amRugby world cup 2023:
South Africa 🇿🇦 vs England 🇬🇧
21:00England will be turning the other cheek ekse….#CricketWorldCup2023#RugbyWorldCup pic.twitter.com/N4QZrFpGfw
— Salt & Pepper😊🇿🇦 (@D_Bhekza) October 16, 2023
A Crucial Semi-Final Awaits
Before dreaming of lifting the trophy, England’s immediate challenge remains the formidable South Africa. Overcoming the current champions will be no easy feat, but it’s a crucial step towards setting the stage for an electrifying final against either New Zealand or Argentina.