England v South Africa: Prediction, Tips and Odds

England conceded 42 points and five tries in a shock defeat to Australia last weekend, a result which extended their poor run to five defeats in six matches, but things could be a lot tighter when they take on world champions South Africa on Saturday.

England have been remodelling their defence over the last year, using an aggressive blitz based on South Africa’s own successful defensive structure.

It could be a case of a rock meeting a hard place when the teams collide at Twickenham and a close, hard-fought battle looks set to ensue.

England v South Africa betting tips and predictions

England +8.5 - 4/5

There was just one point in it when these teams last met, in the semi-final of last year’s Rugby World Cup, but the 16-15 scoreline in South Africa’s favour doesn’t tell the whole story.

England were 13-point underdogs that day but produced a battling performance to lead 15-6 with a little over 10 minutes to go.

They shipped 10 points in those final minutes, something that has come to repeat itself this year as they have blown leads in their last four defeats.

England have lost four in a row but none of those defeats have been by more than seven points and their focus and commitment should be at its peak after last week’s shock.

Three of the last five meetings between these teams have been settled by a single point, and the 2019 World Cup final was poised at 18-12 to the Boks with an hour gone so England know they have what it takes to stay close.

Under 45.5 points - 1/1

The emphasis on defence by both teams and their differing approaches to this game mean this is likely to be a cagey contest, certainly in the opening stages.

After last week’s chastening defeat, England’s priority will surely be to keep things tight and avoid any risks.

South Africa’s game has always been pragmatic, built on set-piece strength and kicking for territory, and the chances are both teams will do all they can to keep their opponents at arm’s length.

This is South Africa’s second game of the autumn campaign but coach Rassie Erasmus has made 12 changes to the side that beat Scotland last week, so most players will be in action for the first time since September and may take time to get into gear.

Only one of the last seven meetings between these teams has reached the 45-point mark and this autumn series clash may be short of fireworks.

Cheslin Kolbe to score a try - 6/4

When defences are on top it takes a touch of brilliance to break through and the Springboks have the man to produce just that in winger Cheslin Kolbe.

The blitz defence used by both teams relies on stepping up quickly and aggressively to close down space, but it can leave gaps behind if an attacking player is sharp enough to evade that initial contact.

Step forward Kolbe, whose dancing feet are well known to England fans after he scored a remarkable try to seal victory in the 2019 World Cup final.

Kolbe’s slight frame and brilliant footwork make him a constant danger and if anyone can unlock the battle of two dominant defences, he looks by far the most likely candidate.

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England v South Africa odds

England - 9/4
Tie - 20/1
South Africa - 4/11

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This article was written by a partner sports writer via Spotlight Sports Group. All odds displayed on this page were correct at the time of writing and are subject to withdrawal or change at any time.