3 minute read
France enter their quarter-final with South Africa as tournament favourites after topping their pool and remaining unbeaten.
The hosts have not lost on home soil since Scotland defeated them in a Six Nations match behind closed doors two-and-a-half years ago. Head coach Fabien Galthie is relishing the challenge of trying to prolong that run by ending the Springboks' defence of the Webb Ellis Cup.
South Africa have been beatable this season but have also shown that they can slug it out with the best.
This match displays the lopsided nature of the Rugby World Cup draw with the No 2 ranked Springboks facing No 3 ranked France.
South Africa are short to not give up any cards across the contest with France and given the impact red cards had on their last meeting that seems spot on. However, there is good value in backing a single card.
A penalty for South Africa as the first points combines decent returns and high likelihood but a try for France will probably the bold punter's choice.
While Damian Penaud to score and France to win doesn't blow the doors off it is another shot that could well land. Meanwhile, if you fancy South Africa for the win, think about adding Bongi Mbonambi to score.
France's attacking ability, rated as the best in the world by some critics, makes them an attractive prospect in the handicap market.
France at -9.5 will give you that extra bit on top of the unqualified win for the hosts.
If hot-stepping Cheslin Kolbe can get over along with a score for French try-machine Penaud, it will give a great return to backers.
If you're keen on backing South Africa to go all the way and win the Rugby World Cup for a fourth time, now would be a good time to do it, with odds likely to shorten significantly should they get beyond France.
France are unlikely to receive a significant boost from getting beyond South Africa, but few would think they would lose to either England or Fiji in the semis.
The winner of this match will almost certainly also go on to the final, probably to face either Ireland or New Zealand.
Suggested bets
France at -9.5
Total cards over 0.5
Bongi Mbonambi to score
Cheslin Kolbe to score
