England vs Fiji Preview - Rugby World Cup 2023
Date: 15/10/23
Time: 17:00 CET
Venue: Stade de Marseille, Marseille
England will face Fiji in the Rugby World Cup 2023 quarter-finals on October 15, 2023. England topped Pool D, meanwhile, Fiji finished second in Pool C. England have not suffered any defeats in the group stage, while Fiji suffered a defeat to Portugal, however, managed to finish above Australia. Fiji had also suffered a defeat against Wales.
Steve Borthwick's side have played against Fiji 3 times in their previous meetings and have celebrated victories in all three games.
England's squad for Rugby World Cup 2023
Forwards: Ollie Chessum, Dan Cole, Tom Curry, Theo Dan, Ben Earl, Ellis Genge, Jamie George, Maro Itoje, Courtney Lawes, Lewis Ludlam, Joe Marler, George Martin, David Ribbans, Bevan Rodd, Kyle Sinckler, Will Stuart, Billy Vunipola, Jack Walker, Jack Willis.
Backs: Henry Arundell, Danny Care, Elliot Daly, Owen Farrell (captain), George Ford, Ollie Lawrence, Max Malins, Joe Marchant, Jonny May, Alex Mitchell, Marcus Smith, Freddie Steward, Manu Tuilagi, Ben Youngs.
Fiji's squad for Rugby World Cup 2023
Sireli Maqala, Selesitino Ravutaumada, Waisea Nayacalevu (captain), Josua Tuisova, Vinaya Habosi, Vilimoni Botitu, Frank Lomani; Viliame Mata, Levani Botia, Meli Derenalagi, Temo Mayanavanua, Isoa Nasilasila, Luke Tagi, Sam Matavesi, Eroni Mawi. Reserves: Tevita Ikanivere, Peni Ravai, Mesake Doge, Te Ahiwaru Cirikidaveta, Albert Tuisue, Peni Matawalu, Teti Tela, Iosefo Masi.
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England vs Fiji Prediction - Rugby World Cup 2023
England managed to maintain their perfect record with a narrow one-point victory over Samoa, although some may argue that luck played a part.
Fiji, on the other hand, had a mixed performance in the tournament, securing wins against Australia and Georgia but losing to Portugal. However, they did manage to secure a losing bonus point in the Portugal game, which proved to be crucial for their advancement. The Red and Whites' form leading up to the tournament had been less than stellar, including a historic loss to Fiji at Twickenham.
To address the injury to Jack Willis, Sam Underhill has been brought into the squad as a replacement. In addition, there were concerns as Manu Tuilagi and Jamie George sustained injuries during the Samoa match, but both are expected to recover in time.
Meanwhile, the South Pacific side's performance was lackluster prior to their defeat against Portugal, and Simon Rawalui might need to focus on improving their confidence in the upcoming week.
Prediction: England by 14 points.
According to Vbet.com, England are a slight favorite in this game.
Match winner:
England win: 1.25
Fiji win: 3.57
BET ON: England vs Fiji
England vs Fiji Team News - Rugby World Cup 2023
England are on the verge of implementing several significant changes, with the return of Owen Farrell as captain and fly-half being highly anticipated.
There's also a daring possibility of Marcus Smith, who has only played full-back once, taking on this role, potentially leading to George Ford and Freddie Steward missing out. Joe Marchant is poised to make a positional shift from the wing to the center, partnering with Manu Tuilagi. Elliot Daly might find himself on the wing, opposite Jonny May.
In the front row, England are considering starting with Kyle Sinckler, and there's a competition for a starting spot for Billy Vunipola, who was on the bench in the match against Samoa.
Meanwhile, Fiji are contemplating alterations following their unexpected loss to Portugal, with the aim of rectifying the evident mistakes. Regrettably, Temo Mayanavanua is unavailable due to a knee injury, leading to the call-up of the experienced Api Ratuniyarawa from London Irish as his replacement.