Itoje: These Boks can be defeated

PRE-MATCH INTERVIEW: In the World Cup semifinal against South Africa, England is sure that the bookies and experts who have them pegged as “underdogs” are ridiculous.

The All Blacks were easily defeated by Eddie Jones’ England squad in the playoffs four years ago, and the title seemed certain. However, on Saturday at Stade de France in Paris, the Springboks will be the overwhelming favourites.

Despite losing 8–13 to Ireland in a group match earlier this month, the Boks bounced back spectacularly, defeating the Irish in last week’s quarterfinal by a close margin of 29–28 to unseat them from the top spot in the world rankings.

Everything on the machine seems to be in excellent operating order and synchronizes perfectly, including the replacement starters and the forwards and backs.

Veteran lock Maro Itoje, though, asserted that it was unnecessary to elevate South Africa.

He declared, “They are the World Champions right now.”

“They had an excellent World Cup, but since 2019, we have faced them twice.

Both of us and they have won.

“We’re not discussing a squad that has won every game.

“We’re not discussing a flawless squad here.

“We make a good team, but so do they.”

Itoje stated that England must concentrate on the game.

Over the course of a career, that’s not often enough to get two or three games of his caliber, if you’re lucky.

We understand that this is a chance to grab the bull by the horns.

He made a suggestion that England’s finest work was still to come.

At the pre-game media briefing, Itoje stated, “That’s what I believe.”

“I think this squad has a ton of untapped potential.”

“Our best side is still hidden from you.”

The greatest of England, he said, will see them through to the end.

“We will celebrate on Saturday and have a great evening if we give it our all on the field.”