Picture: for illustration purposes
As the Springboks, South Africa's national rugby team, completed their final practice session before the crucial Rugby World Cup semi-final against England, they exuded confidence. Standing as world champions, having eliminated the host nation, they have ascended to the top of the world rankings.
Their triumphant record speaks volumes; the last World Cup duel against England concluded with an impressive 32-12 victory in Japan in 2019, reflecting their global dominance. England, despite knocking out New Zealand in the semi-finals, failed to replicate this performance in the ultimate match.
In the intervening four years, South Africa maintained its stature as a fierce and organized team. Their formidable front-row continues to intimidate competitors, and under the guidance of flyhalf Maestro Manie Libbok, their attacking strategies have taken a significant leap forward.
England's performance in this World Cup, however, should not be seen lightly. They've emerged into the semi-finals unbeaten, having overcome an underwhelming run of only four victories in their previous thirteen games. First-year coach Steve Borthwick encouraged critics to keep an eye on England's performance during the World Cup, and it seems his words were more than mere bluff.
While South Africa is the bookmakers' favourite, England's inspiring journey to this stage cannot be overlooked. Borthwick’s largest challenge yet remains: strategizing to overcome the veteran Springboks, who boast 15 players from their victorious Yokohama final four years ago.