Rugby World Cup semi-final: Stephen Ferris previews England v South Africa

England v South Africa (Sat, 20.00, ITV)

Both teams emerged from nervy quarter-final victories, and I’m sure the emotions will have taken some time to settle down.

South Africa’s match against France in the last eight is already being hailed as one of the greatest in rugby history, with the Springboks managing to pull off a victory that was never guaranteed at any point during this game.

The big questions are whether the intensity of that contest has taken too much out of South Africa or is this well-oiled machine ready to conquer its next challenge?

Meanwhile, England began their quarter-final against Fiji with gusto but had to endure a spirited comeback in the second half when an Owen Farrell drop goal eventually restored momentum in England’s favour, securing their passage to the semi-finals.

The history between these two teams adds another layer of intrigue. South Africa have triumphed in six of their last 10 meetings with England, including the resounding 32-12 victory in the final four years ago.

South Africa went after the English scrum that day, and completely obliterated them on several occasions. Many South Africans say “no scrum, no win” and in fairness they certainly have a point if the last final is anything to go by.

Notably, players like Maro Itoje, Ben Earl, Farrell and Manu Tuilagi are undoubtedly relishing this underdog role. With a handicap of around 13 points against them, they aim to defy the odds and turn this contest into an intense battle.

Expect a tactical, cagey approach from England, emphasising kicking for territory and a high-energy defensive line to force South Africa into errors.

However, South Africa have seen a resurgence in the form of several key players, including Cheslin Kolbe, who has recaptured his superstar status in this tournament. Jesse Kriel, Kurt-Lee Arendse, Eben Etzebeth, Bongi Mbonambi, Franco Mostert and Manie Libbok have all excelled, forming a formidable unit that make South Africa a tough nut to crack.

Their relentless approach and depth on the bench are additional factors favouring their quest to retain the Webb Ellis Cup. In the eyes of many, South Africa are the team to beat in this year’s Rugby World Cup and I wouldn’t dispute that.

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