Relax everyone. Of course, the Springboks made our list of the strongest teams so far at the Rugby World Cup 2019 in Japan. In fact, so impressive have South Africa been, online sports betting sites in South Africa have the Springboks on the third line of betting behind a very impressive English team, and our long-time nemesis, New Zealand’s All Blacks. However, which are the other teams to impress and potentially impede South Africa’s progress? Ahead of the weekend’s quarter finals, let’s take a look;
England – Eddie Jones’ England team have overcome all obstacles coming their way, without really hitting top gear but underlining their status as second favourites after the All Blacks. The Quarter Finals will be their biggest test thus far.
New Zealand – Speaking of the All Blacks, they are still not hit top gear, but remain to be the team to beat. With a vast variation in their attacking options in scoring out wide and through the middle, and tries coming from set-piece moves, turnover possessions and deft kicks, NZ are all class.
Wales – Another side still not at their best but repelling both the Aussies and Fijians with professional aplomb, expect Wales to be there at the very pointy end of the tournament.
South Africa – The Springboks first XV were impressive enough against NZ, and the second XV put away Namibia and Italy respectively. Coach Rassie Erasmus’ strategy of keeping his first XV fresh may yet pay dividends. Erasmus clearly knows his best team and given the size and physicality of the pack in particular, South Africa will be a match for any team remaining in the tournament. Watch for the Springboks flyhalf midfield general Handre Pollard to hit top form.
Australia – We almost didn’t include the Wallabies on this list, but the second-half comeback against Wales that only denied Australia victory due to a referring error earnt them their spot. If they get through a tough Quarter Final, anything could happen.
Ireland – Other than a shock loss to hosts Japan, Ireland have been thoroughly impressive. Slick and professional for the most part, the Irish should not under perform again.
Japan – Huge home support has seen the Japanese team, the Cherry Blossoms, overperform at their own tournament with dazzling backline speed and ferocious and tenacious defence.
France – World Cup specialists, France, have underperformed at times and were nearly run down by Tonga in the pool stage. Never underestimate the unpredictable Gallic flair. Lack of quality opponents thus far (due the cancellation of their blockbuster clash with England due to a typhoon) sees the French in peak physical condition.
We can’t wait for the Quarter Finals to begin and see all the big hitting Rugby World Cup action unfold and how the Springboks progress. Go South Africa!