South Africa triumphed in a gripping and intense Rugby World Cup final in Paris, seizing their fourth title in a match packed with twists and turns. The Springboks initially took charge, aided by New Zealand’s early red card, establishing a solid lead. However, the resilient All Blacks fought back, creating a nail-biting contest that saw both teams vying for dominance in a fiercely competitive showdown.

In the 27th minute, New Zealand captain Sam Cane received a red card for a high tackle on Jesse Kriel, leaving his team a man down and trailing by nine points. Despite the setback, the All Blacks staged a remarkable comeback, narrowing the gap with a penalty from Richie Mo’unga and a try by Beauden Barrett, reducing South Africa’s lead to a mere point.

The thrilling final quarter saw both sides fiercely pursuing a decisive score. However, neither team managed to break the deadlock, with missed opportunities on both ends. South Africa held on by a thread, claiming a historic third consecutive one-point victory in the knockout stages, leaving captain Siya Kolisi and his team in jubilation as they secured an unprecedented back-to-back win on foreign soil.

The Springboks’ triumph marks their unparalleled dominance in Rugby World Cup history, winning half of the tournaments they’ve participated in. Their journey to this victory has been a testament to their resilience and unity, especially under the leadership of Kolisi, the team’s first black Test captain, earning support from across South Africa’s diverse population.

Meanwhile, New Zealand’s four-year journey under coach Ian Foster culminated agonizingly close to the ultimate prize. The intense and physically demanding final showcased a ferocious battle between the two rugby powerhouses, etching a memorable chapter in the sport’s history.

Match Summary

World Cup Final | New Zealand 11:12 South Africa

New Zealand Scores:

South Africa Scores:

Venue:

Referee

Man of the Match

Highlights

For everything about the Rugby World Cup 2023 check out our guide here.

The passionate crowd’s support fueled Argentina’s late push towards England’s line, but an unsuccessful penalty kick by Nicolas Sanchez to level the scores wide allowed England, led by Steve Borthwick, to close their France 2023 campaign with a win. The relief among England’s players was palpable as the final whistle marked the end of a challenging but rewarding tournament.

The victory paralleled England’s initial triumph over the Pumas seven weeks earlier in Marseille, underscoring a journey that began with adversity. Despite early setbacks and a grueling match, England managed to kick-start a campaign that almost led them to the finals against South Africa, falling short by just a minute and a single point.

In this game devoid of the pressure of knockout rounds, several rising stars showcased their potential for future inclusion in the team. Hooker Theo Dan’s energetic performance, including a try early in the second half, and Marcus Smith’s dynamic attacking play highlighted the match’s quality, despite not all of Smith’s initiatives yielding success.

Expectations were high for Henry Arundell, a prolific scorer in earlier matches, but he faced challenges in this game, failing to leave an impact in the first half and conceding a penalty with a misplaced kick later on.

The match witnessed England’s strong start led by Tom Curry and Ben Earl, setting the tone with early points. Despite a resilient Argentine comeback, England’s initial dominance shone through. The second half saw an intense exchange of tries, with Dan showcasing moments at both ends of the field, illustrating the back-and-forth nature of the game.

Argentina’s relentless pursuit to narrow the score kept the game tense, culminating in a missed penalty kick that sealed England’s third-place finish in the Rugby World Cup, marking a significant achievement in the team’s history.

Match Summary

Bronze Final | Argentina 23:26 England

Argentina Scores:

England Scores:

Highlights

For everything about the Rugby World Cup 2023 check out our guide here.

The match will kick off at 8 pm BST, which is 9 pm local time. The two teams reached the final after defeating Argentina and England, respectively, in the semi-finals.

New Zealand and South Africa have played against each other five times in previous Rugby World Cups. The results of these matches are as follows:

– 1995 Rugby World Cup final: South Africa won 15-12

– 1999 Rugby World Cup semi-final: South Africa won 22-18

– 2003 Rugby World Cup quarter-final: New Zealand won 29-9

– 2015 Rugby World Cup semi-final: New Zealand won 20-18

– 2019 Rugby World Cup pool stage: New Zealand won 23-13

Overall, New Zealand has won 62 of the 105 matches played against South Africa, while South Africa has won 39, and there have been four draws.

New Zealand and South Africa are the most successful teams in the history of the Rugby World Cup, with each team having won the tournament three times.

New Zealand has won the tournament in 1987, 2011, 2015, 2017, 2021, and 2023, while South Africa has won in 1995, 2007, and 2019.

Australia has won the tournament twice, while England has won it once. France is the only team to have reached a final and not emerge victorious.

In terms of head-to-head matches, New Zealand and South Africa have played each other 105 times, with New Zealand leading the series 62 to 39, with four matches drawn.

The two teams have played against each other five times in previous Rugby World Cups, with South Africa winning twice and New Zealand winning three times.

What are the odds?

The odds for South Africa to win the Rugby World Cup final are 11/10 on Betfred, which implies a 47.6% chance of winning. However, South Africa can be found for as short as Evens on several UK bookmakers.

The odds for South Africa to win the Rugby World Cup final are also listed as 6/5 on Oddschecker. The odds for South Africa to win the Rugby World Cup final are subject to change and may vary depending on the bookmaker.

On the other hand the odds for New Zealand to win the Rugby World Cup final are 4/5 on William Hill, which implies a 55.6% chance of winning. New Zealand is the narrow 4/5 favourites to win the 2023 Rugby World Cup.

The odds for New Zealand to win the Rugby World Cup final are also listed as 10/11 on Ladbrokes. New Zealand and South Africa are the most likely teams to contest the final according to the bookies.

The odds for New Zealand to win the Rugby World Cup final are subject to change and may vary depending on the bookmaker.

Who is showing the match?

Here are some options for watching the Rugby World Cup final in the UK, USA, and across Europe:

UK:

– ITV Hub: ITV is the official broadcaster for the Rugby World Cup in the UK, and all games will be available on ITV1 and ITV4 on TV and online. You can also stream the matches for free on the ITV Hub

– ITVX: If you’re interested in streaming on mobile devices and computers, the streaming component known as ITVX will also have all the coverage you need

USA:

– NBC Sports: NBC is the exclusive broadcast partner for the Rugby World Cup in the United States, and all games will stream live on its Peacock streaming service

Europe:

– National broadcasters: Wherever you live in Europe, there’s a good possibility that a national broadcaster is streaming the Rugby World Cup matches, particularly if your country has a team playing in the tournament.

– Rugby Villages: In France, host cities have already announced they will host Rugby Villages with big screens to watch matches live.

It’s worth noting that some of these options may require a subscription or payment, and some may be subject to regional restrictions. If you’re having trouble accessing a particular service, you may want to consider using a Virtual Private Network (VPN) to bypass these restrictions.

Who is playing in the Bronze Final?

The Rugby World Cup Bronze Final will take place on Friday, October 27, 2023, at the Stade de France in Saint-Denis, Paris.

The match will kick off at 9 pm local time, which is 8 pm BST. The two teams that will play in the Bronze Final are Argentina and England, who lost to South Africa and New Zealand, respectively, in the semi-finals.

In the UK the match will be shown on ITV1 and ITV4 on TV and online on the ITV Hub.

The Rugby World Cup final is set to be a thrilling clash between two giants of the sport, New Zealand and South Africa, taking place on October 28, 2023, at the iconic Stade de France in Paris.

The stage is set for an epic showdown as these rugby powerhouses vie for the ultimate glory. With a rich history of head-to-head battles and their impressive track records in the tournament, this final promises to be a spectacle that fans around the world won’t want to miss.

For everything about the Rugby World Cup 2023 check out our guide here.

These two powerhouses, New Zealand and South Africa, stand as the most successful teams in the tournament’s history, each boasting three Rugby World Cup titles to their name.

In 2015, the All Blacks achieved an unprecedented feat, becoming the first team to retain the prestigious Webb Ellis Cup. Now, the Springboks, stand poised to replicate this remarkable accomplishment if they can emerge victorious.

This final is not merely a contest of talent and strength; it also rekindles one of rugby’s most storied rivalries. The Springboks and the All Blacks will meet in the final for the first time since the 1995 Rugby World Cup in South Africa. That historic encounter saw the hosts triumph over New Zealand, led by the formidable Jonah Lomu, with a final score of 15-12, clinching the coveted Webb Ellis Cup for the first time.

This monumental victory took on an even greater significance, serving as a symbol of unity and hope during the early years of democracy in South Africa. The moment when Nelson Mandela presented the Webb Ellis Cup to Springbok captain Francois Pienaar is etched into the annals of sporting history as one of the most iconic images. Wearing a replica of Pienaar’s number-six jersey, Mandela jubilantly raised his fist as Pienaar hoisted the trophy high.

Since that historic moment, these two rugby giants have clashed four times at the Rugby World Cup, with the All Blacks emerging victorious in three of those encounters. South Africa did manage to beat New Zealand in the bronze-medal match during the 1999 edition.

Notable matches between these titans include New Zealand’s quarter-final win (29-9) in 2003 and their nail-biting semi-final victory (20-18) in 2015, which eventually led them to their second consecutive title. The All Blacks secured another win against their Southern Hemisphere rivals in the pool match at the 2019 World Cup in Japan. Despite this setback, South Africa demonstrated their resilience, becoming the first team to lose a pool match and go on to win the tournament.

It’s worth noting that since the inception of the Rugby World Cup in 1987, only four nations have laid their hands on the coveted Webb Ellis Cup: England, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa.

Before the much-anticipated final, rugby enthusiasts can catch another thrilling match on Friday, October 27th, when England and Argentina will battle it out to determine who secures third place in this remarkable tournament.

For everything about the Rugby World Cup 2023 check out our guide here.

Owen Farrell was clinical with his kicking, converting four penalties to give England a 12-6 lead at halftime. The Springboks, however, reorganized their lineup after the break, but Farrell’s drop-goal extended England’s lead, bringing them tantalizingly close to a monumental victory.

Nevertheless, with just 10 minutes remaining, RG Snyman’s try narrowed the underdogs’ lead to 15-13. The decisive blow came in the 77th minute when the Springboks’ powerful scrum secured a match-winning penalty, thanks to Handre Pollard. It was a cruel ending for England, who had led from the third minute until the closing moments of the game.

Amidst the drama, white-shirted England players lay dejected on the rain-soaked Stade de France turf. Tempers flared as confrontations erupted between players, reflecting the intensity and physicality of the contest. This unyielding spirit defined the England side, who consistently stood their ground and took the fight to their more favored opponents.

The performance was a testament to the coaching prowess of Steve Borthwick, who had previously orchestrated an astonishing turnaround for Leicester, transforming them from relegation contenders to Premiership champions in just 18 months. He had guided England to the precipice of a World Cup final, an achievement that underscored his coaching acumen.

Following a narrow victory over hosts France in the previous week on the same stage, South Africa advanced to face New Zealand in the upcoming World Cup final, with both teams vying for a record fourth title. Meanwhile, England was slated to contest the third-place playoff against Argentina.

England’s Strategic Brilliance in Paris

In a stark contrast to their past encounters with the Springboks, where they were often outmaneuvered and outmuscled, England began the match as the aggressors. They displayed confidence and executed a well-thought-out game plan. Early in the game, Joe Marchant nearly secured Farrell’s opening drop-out, leaving the South African defense guessing.

England’s aerial prowess was evident as Elliot Daly outjumped Kurt-Lee Arendse to tap back an Alex Mitchell box-kick, and Courtney Lawes was quick to seize loose balls on the ground. Freddie Steward, who was reinstated in the starting lineup for this specific purpose, adeptly fielded kicks into England’s backfield. This relentless pressure unsettled South Africa.

Referee Ben O’Keeffe, scrutinized for his controversial handling of the previous match between the Springboks and France, penalized Pieter-Steph Du Toit and Siya Kolisi in quick succession. Farrell capitalized on these opportunities, converting two penalties and giving England an early 6-0 lead within the first 10 minutes.

South Africa attempted to rely on their traditional strengths, including one-out runners, strong line-out play, scrum dominance, and risk-averse tactics. However, England consistently denied them any foothold in the match.

England’s defensive prowess disrupted the Springbok rolling maul, and George Martin’s powerful tackle forced a crucial knock-on from Franco Mostert. Although South Africa’s Manie Libbok managed to score three points, Farrell extended England’s lead with another penalty after a loose pass from Damian Willemse put the Springboks under pressure.

With England leading 9-3 and the game clock ticking down, South Africa made a critical decision, replacing Libbok with Pollard at fly-half in search of a momentum shift. Despite this change, England, brimming with self-assurance, entered halftime with a 12-6 lead, the same advantage that South Africa had enjoyed in Yokohama four years prior.

South Africa’s Strategic Adjustments

Recognizing the need for a turnaround, South Africa introduced key replacements early in the second half. Faf de Klerk, Willie le Roux, and RG Snyman were brought on within the first six minutes of the half, with the formidable Eben Etzebeth among those who made way.

However, England’s substitutions initially had a more significant impact. Ellis Genge’s powerful run created the ideal platform for Farrell to execute a drop-goal, extending England’s lead to 15-6. At this point, England’s fans, seemingly outnumbered at the stadium, began to outsing the Springbok supporters, with “Swing Low” resonating throughout the stands.

In the end, it was the Springbok fans who had the last, triumphant cheer. Snyman barged over near the posts, narrowing England’s lead to a mere two points, and the depth of South Africa’s squad ultimately secured a nail-biting conclusion to the match. Replacement props Ox Nche and Vincent Koch capitalized on the set-piece, earning a pivotal penalty. As in 2019, Handre Pollard demonstrated unerring accuracy from the tee, securing South Africa’s victory.

In a clash marked by intensity and dramatic swings, South Africa emerged victorious, ending England’s valiant pursuit of a fifth Rugby World Cup final appearance.

Match Summary

Semi-Final 2 | England 15:16 South Africa

England Scores:

South Africa Scores:

Highlights

For everything about the Rugby World Cup 2023 check out our guide here.

Will Jordan delivered a stellar performance, securing a remarkable hat-trick, as New Zealand overwhelmed Argentina with seven tries at Stade de France, propelling them to an unprecedented fifth Rugby World Cup final.

The three-time champions displayed unwavering discipline in their defense and unleashed a ruthless assault, with Jordan, Jordie Barrett, and Shannon Frizell contributing first-half tries. Aaron Smith extended their lead with a fourth try in the second half, and Frizell added another before Jordan claimed the title of leading try scorer.

In the upcoming final, the All Blacks will confront either South Africa or England. Despite Argentina’s third appearance in a World Cup semi-final, they struggled to penetrate New Zealand’s defense, managing only two Emiliano Boffelli penalties.

The All Blacks absorbed the initial pressure before launching devastating counter-attacks. They could have broken their record for the largest winning margin in a World Cup semi-final, but Richie Mo’unga chose to carry the ball himself instead of passing to Jordan for a potential fourth try.

The Pumas will vie for third/fourth place, aiming to equal their best-ever finish from the 2007 tournament in France. Meanwhile, New Zealand aspires to become the most successful nation in World Cup history with a fourth title when they return to the Stade de France next weekend.

Match Summary

Semi-Final 1 | Argentina 6:44 New Zealand

Argentina Scores:

New Zealand Scores:

Highlights

For everything about the Rugby World Cup 2023 check out our guide here.

The two standout matches were between Ireland and New Zealand and France and South Africa. Both contests could easily have been finals in their own right.
On Friday, Argentina and New Zealand will battle it out in the first semi-final at Stade de France, followed by England’s clash with defending champions South Africa at the same venue.

Here’s how these four teams secured their places in the semi-finals:

Wales 17-29 Argentina

In a dramatic match in Marseille, veteran fly-half Nicolás Sánchez intercepted Sam Costelow’s pass just three minutes from the end and dashed under the posts to score the crucial try that sent Argentina into the semi-finals at the expense of Wales.

Emiliano Boffelli successfully converted, and Sánchez added a vital penalty, making the final score 29-17 in favor of Los Pumas. Argentina had to come from behind twice, with Dan Biggar scoring the game’s opening try, giving Wales a 10-0 lead in the first 20 minutes.

However, Argentina fought back with Boffelli’s penalties, taking the lead in the second half. Wales briefly regained the advantage with a try from scrum-half Tomos Williams, but Joel Sclavi scored a crucial try for Argentina, and Sánchez’s penalty sealed the deal.

Ireland 24-28 New Zealand

In another epic showdown, New Zealand’s Sam Whitelock, playing in his 151st test match, secured a penalty in injury time that propelled New Zealand into the semi-finals.

New Zealand triumphed 28-24 after defending against an astonishing 37 phases of relentless Irish pressure at the end of the match. The All Blacks had taken an early 13-0 lead but saw it reduced to 18-17 by halftime.

Despite spending 20 minutes with a player in the sin-bin, they managed to hold on for the victory.

The match featured tries from Leicester Fainga’anuku and Bundee Aki, and Ardie Savea and Jamison Gibson-Park scored, but the highlight was Will Jordan’s fifth try of the tournament. Ireland’s relentless efforts fell short, and they needed a try to break their quarter-final curse.

England 30-24 Fiji

In a match reminiscent of Fiji’s remarkable 2007 Rugby World Cup quarter-final performance in Marseille, the Fijians came from behind at halftime to level the scores at 24-24 on the 70-minute mark against England.

Tries from Peni Ravai and Vilimoni Botitu played a crucial role in this comeback. However, England’s fly-half and captain, Owen Farrell, proved to be the difference-maker, contributing 20 points to his team’s effort.

He kicked a drop goal to regain the lead and added a late penalty to secure a 30-24 victory, echoing England’s 2003 World Cup triumph.

France 28-29 South Africa

The quarter-final in Saint-Denis between France and South Africa delivered a titanic battle. Six tries were scored in the first 30 minutes, setting the tone for an enthralling encounter.

Despite coming from behind twice, the defending champions, South Africa, managed to prevail. France had their moments, with prop Cyril Baille scoring a try, and livewire hooker Peato Mauvaka also found the scoreboard.

Thomas Ramos and Eben Etzebeth made crucial contributions, and Handre Pollard’s conversion and penalty sealed the deal.

The match ended with a late reply from Ramos, but South Africa emerged victorious with a score of 29-28.

For everything about the Rugby World Cup 2023 check out our guide here.

The line-up for the semi-finals of Rugby World Cup 2023 has been confirmed.

World No.8 ranked side Argentina – semi-finalists in 2007 and 2015 – will take on three-time champions New Zealand.

Rugby World Cup 2003 winners England play reigning champions South Africa, who are searching for a record fourth title. All matches will take place at Stade de France in Saint-Denis.

The full line-up is as follows (all Central European Summer Time):

Friday, 20 October

SF1 – 21:00: Argentina v New Zealand – Stade de France

Saturday, 21 October

SF2 – 21:00: England v South Africa – Stade de France

Rugby World Cup 2027

Teams qualified for RWC 2027 in Australia are: Argentina, Australia, England, Fiji, France, Ireland, Italy, Japan, New Zealand, Scotland, South Africa, Wales

For everything about the Rugby World Cup 2023 check out our guide here.

Eben Etzebeth’s remarkable late surge propelled the Springboks from behind to halt France’s remarkable 18-game winning streak on home turf. This triumph earned them a spot in the semi-finals, where they will face England, setting the stage for a rematch of the 2019 final, an epic encounter between two rugby titans.

The Stade de France witnessed a heart-pounding first half where both teams demonstrated their prowess, scoring three tries each. However, a crucial penalty by Thomas Ramos provided the hosts with a slender lead at halftime.

In the second half, as France sought to gain momentum, Ramos added another three points. The resilient French side, led by their returning talisman Antoine Dupont, aimed to seize the maiden title from the defending champions.

But it was Etzebeth’s try that marked the turning point, overturning the deficit. The match’s fate hung in the balance until Handre Pollard’s colossal penalty from inside his own half ultimately sealed the victory. Despite another Ramos penalty narrowing the gap, South Africa prevailed, ending France’s World Cup aspirations.

France’s World Cup journey came to an abrupt halt after entering the tournament as strong contenders. With an impressive victory over New Zealand in their opener and topping Pool A with a perfect record, they were poised to win their first Webb Ellis Cup. A fractured cheekbone to Dupont cast a shadow, but he made a triumphant return to the field against the Springboks, fueling hope for a successful 2023 campaign.

The match began with intensity, as France swiftly moved the ball through Dupont, resulting in Cyril Baille’s try in the corner. South Africa answered back, with Damian De Allende orchestrating a breakaway try to take the lead.

Peato Mauvaka’s try evened the score before Cheslin Kolbe’s outstanding charge-down of Ramos’ conversion attempt turned the tide. Kolbe then showcased his exceptional skills, scoring South Africa’s third try. Baille completed his brace, and Ramos’ conversion and a penalty ensured France’s lead at halftime.

The second half was characterized by cautious play from both sides, but the momentum shifted when Etzebeth powered over the line. South Africa’s experience, with eight of their starting XV from the 2019 World Cup final, proved crucial in securing the win.

As they now prepare to face England in the semi-finals, South Africa aims to make history by becoming the most successful side in World Cup history. Their smart tactics, including challenging the inexperienced French wing, Louis Bielle-Biarrey, allowed them to gain the upper hand. Despite early uncertainties, Manie Libbok calmly slotted the ball through the posts, while De Allende and Kolbe showcased their scoring prowess.

With this remarkable victory, South Africa emerges as strong favorites to reach consecutive World Cup finals, setting the stage for a high-stakes showdown with England.

Match Summary

Quarter-Final 4 |France 28:29 South Africa

France Scores:

South Africa Scores:

Referee:

Ben O’Keeffe

Man of the Match:

Antoine Dupont (France)

Highlights

For everything about the Rugby World Cup 2023 check out our guide here.

England’s Rugby World Cup journey took an electrifying turn as they clinched a pulsating semi-final spot with a heart-pounding victory against a spirited Fiji in Marseille. In a match filled with twists and turns, England managed to hang on for a nail-biting 30-24 win.

England was firmly in control with a comfortable 14-point lead when, in the final 15 minutes, Fiji’s Peni Ravai and Vilimoni Botitu orchestrated a breathtaking comeback, leveling the score at 24-24 in just four frantic minutes. It was a moment of redemption for Owen Farrell, who had faced criticism when chosen over George Ford to start at fly-half, as he ultimately proved his worth with a match-winning drop-goal, giving England a 27-24 advantage with eight minutes left. A late penalty from Farrell added a bit of cushion for England.

However, the drama was far from over. In the dying moments, Farrell’s deliberate knock-on handed Fiji a penalty, causing hearts to race. But England managed to regain possession and secure a memorable victory.

With Ireland and Wales having bowed out earlier, England emerged as the sole remaining home nation in the tournament. They will now face either the host nation, France, or the defending champions, South Africa, in the semi-finals on 21 October, with their ultimate goal being the coveted Rugby World Cup.

The journey to this semi-final spot was far from smooth for England. Their status as favorites was marred by a disappointing defeat to Fiji in the World Cup warm-up games, coupled with an inconsistent performance in the pool stage. England’s fans, however, outnumbered Fijians in Marseille and were rewarded with a sensational display.

The game began with a ferocious intensity, characterized by bone-crushing tackles and relentless action. England recognized the breakdown as a critical battleground, and their early success in this area led to an opening penalty, which Farrell coolly converted. The relentless pace continued as a rolling maul created an opportunity for Manu Tuilagi to crash over for England’s first try.

England’s ability to convert individual talent into a cohesive attack was on full display against Fiji. Smart running lines, incisive playmaking, and quick ball movement kept the Fijian defense on edge. Joe Marchant’s try showcased England’s improved attacking prowess.

Fiji, despite being a player down, made their presence felt by capitalizing on England’s lapses. Viliame Mata’s try demonstrated their resilience and the ability to exploit any gaps.

As Fiji mounted a comeback, the crowd rallied behind England, willing them into Fiji’s 22. The relentless Fijian assault was eventually halted, allowing Farrell to seal England’s fate with a crucial drop-goal and penalty.

The match showcased England’s remarkable turnaround after a turbulent year. While France and South Africa loom as formidable opponents in the semi-final, England’s newfound confidence and collective spirit will be crucial assets in their quest for World Cup glory.

Match Summary

Quarter-Final 3 |England 30:24 Fiji

England Scores:

Fiji Scores:

Referee:

Mathieu Raynal

Man of the Match:

Ben Earl (England)

Highlights

For everything about the Rugby World Cup 2023 check out our guide here.