The quarter-finals created some interesting match ups and some truly brilliant games, my favourite match was New Zealand’s absolute trouncing of France. Wales were undone by the Springboks in a nail biting game, Scotland came just one point away from their first ever semi with the Aussies being awarded a rash penalty in the 79th minute. Ireland were shocked by a magnificent Argentina.
Match 1 : South Africa vs New Zealand
Saturdays match promises to be a monumental match between two legendary teams in international rugby in a repeat of the 1995 final in South Africa. New Zealand silenced critics (including me) with a captivating performance against France producing their best game of the tournament, the match reaffirming them as strong favourites to win the competition. If the Springboks are to beat New Zealand they are going have to up their game, the tactic of just running straight into contact isn’t going to work against the kiwis. They need to spread the ball out and use Bryan Habana and JP Peiterson on the wings. But I think New Zealand will win unless South Africa step up their game.
MATCH 2 : Australia vs Argentina
Australia struggled in what should of been one sided affair against Scotland, only winning by 1 point. Areas of their game were not up to standard, and Scotland deserved to win. Argentina produced one of the best performances of the tournament so far, their quick passing and runs meant the ran circles around the Irish defence. Argentina will favour being the underdogs just as they did in the quarter finals and they will give Australia a good run for their money . I predict Australia will win but the scoreline will be more narrow than most than previously thought.
