By Peter Ryan – @PeterRyanSports
England will look to get their autumn campaign back on track when world champions South Africa come to town.
It has been a more challenging start than Steve Borthwick and his team would have hoped for, as they are coming off the back of two defeats.
There is always a great deal of intrigue when these titans of the game clash, with both teams looking to deliver an electrifying display at the Allianz Stadium in front of a fervent Twickenham crowd.
The unpredictability of the match adds to the excitement, making it an eagerly anticipated game on Saturday evening.
Additionally, there are some interesting betting options for the contest, further engaging the audience ahead of the match.
England
There was a real buzz around England heading into the autumn.
The side has been playing expansive rugby that has captured the attention of rugby fans worldwide. After two narrow defeats to New Zealand, many expected England to kick on and establish themselves as a serious threat to the top three.
However, things haven’t gone to plan, with back-to-back losses to the All Blacks and Australia in recent weeks.
Pressure is beginning to mount on this talented squad, which has managed only one win in their last five matches.
Across those games, they have averaged 24 points per match and will be aiming to turn that attacking potential into victories.
Talent is abundant throughout the England squad, with many superstars among their ranks.
Players like Marcus Smith, Ben Earl, and Tommy Freeman will be keen to make an impact on Saturday. One notable decision from Borthwick is the return of Freddie Steward to the starting 15 at full-back.
The Leicester Tigers full-back offers stability at the back and effectively nullifies most aerial threats.
It will be fascinating to see how England measure up against the Springboks, as many of their standout performances have come when they’ve been under pressure.
South Africa
This South African team is one of the most formidable forces the game has ever seen.
The coaching staff has an embarrassment of riches, with even their second team capable of competing with most opponents.
They have enjoyed a fantastic year, including a strong Rugby Championship campaign that saw them secure the title and reaffirm their position as a dominant force in world rugby.
The Springboks are coming off a solid win against Scotland, where they silenced the Murrayfield crowd, always appearing in control of the encounter.
Over their last five games, they have secured four wins and averaged 29 points per match. South Africa’s strength lies in their depth, with every member of their 23-man squad capable of making a significant impact.
Among their standout players is Cheslin Kolbe, one of the most electrifying talents the game has ever seen, capable of extraordinary feats with the ball.
He will be ably supported by the likes of Siya Kolisi, Jesse Kriel, and Ox Nché, who will aim to deliver excellent performances to frustrate the home fans.
South Africa arrive at Twickenham brimming with confidence, and they are likely to leave the audience both impressed and respectful of their capabilities.
The Bets
There are some intriguing betting opportunities for this match. The best bet is for South Africa to win by more than six points.
The Springboks demonstrated last week that they could deliver a strong performance against a team like Scotland, and at present, there is little to separate England and Scotland on paper.
This suggests South Africa can dominate confidently.
For those seeking value, England to win is a viable option, as they have shown they can compete with the best.
It will come down to their ability to cross the line, and they have often responded well following disappointing defeats.
For those who enjoy a longer shot, South Africa to win by more than 15 points is worth considering. The Springboks have the firepower to take control of the game decisively.
Best Bet: South Africa to win by more than six points – 10/11
Value Bet: England to win – 21/10
Longshot Bet: South Africa to win by more than 15 points – 13/5
READ MORE: France vs All Blacks – Match Betting Preview
