WHAT A SATURDAY! SOUTH AFRICA TO FACE ENGLAND IN BOTH WORLD CUPS!

Argentina vs New Zealand
20/10/2023 – 21:00

It’s probably safe to say that both these nations surprised fans by making the semi-finals. Argentina’s victory over Wales was slightly shrouded with controversy due to an incident in the second period. Karl Dickson overlooked Guido Petti’s shoulder challenge in the ruck, just moments before Joel Sclavi scored a try to give the Pumas a 19-17 lead. Nicolas Sanchez sealed the fate of Wales with two late tries and setup the All-Blacks meeting.

This will be the Pumas third appearance in the semi-finals, and they’ll be up for the monumental battle that lies before them. Meanwhile, New Zealand went from losing their opening game to France to finding that cracking form at the right time. They looked spectacular against the mercurial Irish and fully deserved to earn their semi spot.

Ireland have been incredible but will have to wait a further four years to overcome their quarter-final syndrome. Right now, it’s simple for the All Blacks, win their next two games and become the only team to lift the Webb Ellis trophy four times. They’ve peaked at the right time and with no fresh injuries they should do enough to overcome the spirited Argentina.
NEW ZEALAND TO WIN

England vs South Africa
21/10/2023 – 21:00

England is the only unbeaten team in the world cup. Fiji made them work hard for their victory, but the big test comes on Saturday night. This will be a repeat of the 2019 final and England would love to avenge that defeat. However, if that is to happen, they’ll need to shift through the gears from the moment Ben O’ Keeffe blows the first whistle.

Three changes have been made by Steve Borthwick. Marcus Smith is out after he copped a head knock in the quarters with Freddie Steward set to come into the side at fullback. Elsewhere the side features two other changes, lock George Martin and prop Joe Marler starting in place of Ollie Chessum and Ellis Genge, who both drop to the replacements bench.

The reigning world champions moved a step closer to defending their title as they came out on top in a thriller with France last week. In a cracking contest, the Boks won the match by a point in one of the most absorbing encounters in World Cup history. The South Africans will take some beating here and will look to dominate England with their powerful pack and impressive, pacy backs.

The Boks remain unchanged and if they can replicate that performance from last week – they should setup a potential mouthwatering final with the All Blacks. The only concern is, how much do they have in their tanks after that colossal semi? Well, we’ll find out, but it looks like South Africa will edge England at the final whistle.

SOUTH AFRICA TO WIN

World Cup Cricket

England vs South Africa
21/10/2023 – 10:30

The Proteas looked impressive with two commanding wins over Sri Lanka and Australia respectively. But then came the loss to Netherlands, which should’ve been a guaranteed two points. However, full credit to the Dutchmen. They did what was necessary and pulled off a shocker. England’s struggles look far more deep rooted and a loss to the Proteas will sound off some alarm bells.

As the luck of draw would have it, both sides are facing each other after suffering stunning defeats in their previous match. While that means one of them will immediately get back on a winning trail, it also points to the other side suffering another defeat.

Pitches at the Wankhede Stadium typically have good bounce and carry, bringing everyone into the contest. If the rain stays away, this could be a high-scoring contest. That means, England will need to focus on their bowling attack as they’ve struggled to score runs. Meanwhile, the Proteas will need to grab the game by its horns and not allow the English tail to wag. This has become a bad habit and could be the ultimate downfall for South Africa. If the Proteas top order get going, they’ll have a stronger bowling attack to back that up. Tough contest, but South Africa should edge this one. Let’s hope the rain stays away.

SOUTH AFRICA TO WIN