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In one of the most exciting clashes of the Rugby World Cup so far, South Africa take on Scotland in an encounter that could well determine who makes it through to the quarter-finals from Pool B. Can Scotland spring an upset? Read on for our South Africa vs Scotland predictions.
South Africa vs Scotland – match predictions
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South Africa will be expected to start their World Cup defence on a winning note, but Scotland will have different ideas about that on Sunday. Here are our top predictions ahead of the South Africa vs Scotland this weekend:
Prediction 1: Scotland +11 handicap @ 1/1 (2.00)
All eyes are on Ireland and South Africa in this pool, but we say Scotland will give the defending champions a good scare here. The Scots have been playing some brilliant rugby recently, defeating both England and France so far this season, and while we don’t think they’ll quite get across the line here against South Africa, we expect it will be mighty close. Back them to stick with the Springboks, and fall well within the +11 handicap the bookies are giving them.
Prediction 2: Scotland first to 10 points @ 9/4 (3.25)
Just like they did in their most recent clash against France, we say Scotland will start fast and get to 10 points first. They’re excellent odds to do so, and with players like Finn Russell calling the shots, plus very little expectation heading into this match, chances are they’ll play free flowing rugby from the get go and draw first blood.
South Africa vs Scotland preview: Defending champions face tough first test
Heading into this match, here’s a look at how both teams’ build ups have gone ahead of the Rugby World Cup 2023:
South Africa
It’s been an excellent run into the Rugby World Cup for South Africa, with the defending champions winning five of their six matches so far in 2023. Most notably, they recorded a historic 35-7 victory over the All Blacks a fortnight ago, showcasing their ability to dominate physically. That’s exactly what they’ll be looking to do against Scotland, with big forwards, set pieces and kicking for territory the staples of their game.
Scotland
For Scotland they’ve also been building nicely, and have recently reached an all-time high of world No 5 in the IRB rankings. This comes off the back of a third place finish in the Six Nations earlier this year, followed by three from four victories in their World Cup build up matches. Their biggest encouragement will be the 25-21 and 27-30 fixtures they split with France, showing they can match it with the world’s best. Finn Russell has been crucial, with the pivot able to break open any game.
South Africa vs Scotland head to head
South Africa have dominated the head to head between these two sides, winning 23 of the 28 matches they’ve played. Scotland have not won since 2010, with South Africa claiming their most recent meeting in 2021 by 30-15.
South Africa vs Scotland match details
- Date and time: Sunday 10 September, 4:45 PM GMT
- Venue: Stade Velodrome, Marseille, France
- How to watch: Sky Sports
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