France vs South Africa Preview & Prediction | 2023 Rugby World Cup | Quarter-Final
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THE FACTS
When is France vs South Africa on and what time does it start? France vs South Africa will take place on Sunday 15th October, 2023 – 20:00 (UK)
Where is France vs South Africa taking place? France vs South Africa will take place at Stade de France in Saint-Denis, France
Where can I get tickets for France vs South Africa? Click here for the latest ticket information for France vs South Africa
What channel is France vs South Africa on in the UK? France vs South Africa will be televised live on ITV
Where can I stream France vs South Africa in the UK? France vs South Africa can be streamed live on ITVX
THE SQUADS
FRANCE
Starting 15: Ramos; Penaud, Fickou, Danty, Bielle-Biarrey; Jalibert, Dupont (capt); Baille, Mauvaka, Atonio, Woki, Flament, Jelonch, Ollivon, Alldritt
Replacements: Bourgarit, Wardi, Aldegheri, Taofifenua, Cros, Macalou, Lucu, Moefana
SOUTH AFRICA
Starting 15: Willemse; Arendse, Kriel, De Allende, Kolbe; Libbok, Reinach; Kitshoff, Mbonambi, Malherbe, Etzebeth, Mostert, Kolisi (capt), Du Toit, Vermeulen
Replacements: Fourie, Nche, Koch, Snyman, Smith, De Klerk, Pollard, Le Roux
THE LOWDOWN
FRANCE
Hosts France were imperious in Pool A, delivering a statement win over New Zealand in the tournament’s opener before convincing wins over Uruguay, Namibia and Italy saw them top the group.
The key team news for the French is the return of captain Antoine Dupont, who will start for the first time since suffering a fractured cheekbone against Namibia in the pool stage.
SOUTH AFRICA
Qualification from the group was the minimum expectation for reigning world champions South Africa, and although they achieved that, their defeat to Ireland in the pool stage does leave some questions hanging over their chances of retaining the trophy.
Manie Libbok will start at fly-half for the Springboks and will be partnered by Cobus Reinach at scrum-half, who replaces Faf de Klerk in something of a surprise team selection from head coach Jacques Nienaber.
THE PREDICTION
This is arguably the most closely-matched quarter-final with reigning champions South Africa taking on highly-fancied hosts France. Both have played some impressive rugby in the pool stage but France, playing in front of fervent home crowds, appear to have the edge at the moment. Having lost in the final on three previous editions of the tournament, this could well be the year that they get over the line and they can make a giant leap towards that goal with victory over another strong southern hemisphere side. The return of national team captain Dupont is massive, and he can lead Les Bleus to the semi-finals.
BETTING TIP: FRANCE TO WIN
