Rugby enthusiasts around the world are counting down to the climax of the sport’s biggest spectacle, the Rugby World Cup Final. On Saturday, October 28, 2023, two rugby giants, South Africa and New Zealand, will collide at the illustrious Stade de France in Paris, as they compete for the prestigious Webb Ellis Cup. This eagerly anticipated event promises a breathtaking showcase of rugby prowess. The Webb Ellis Cup will head back to the Southern Hemisphere once again this weekend, but to which continent?
Following the conclusion of the semi-final stage, the 2023 Rugby World Cup narrows down to its decisive moment. England and Argentina, both formidable teams, fell at the penultimate hurdle. And they are set to face off in the bronze final. As rugby fans worldwide await this historic final match. Below we provide all the details you need to know, including the schedule and key match-ups.
Who Has Qualified for the 2023 Rugby World Cup Final?
In a thrilling showdown, New Zealand delivered an impressive performance in the semi-finals by sweeping aside Argentina. While the underdogs briefly led 3-0 after five minutes, the All Blacks soon found their stride, securing a resounding 44-6 victory and booking their spot in the final.
South Africa, on the other hand, secured their place in the final with a narrow 16-15 win over England. This tightly contested match hinged on a late Handre Pollard penalty goal, overturning England’s ten-point lead with little more than 10 minutes left on the clock. Remarkably, all of England’s 15 points in the match came from the boot of their captain, Owen Farrell.
When Is the Final and Third-Place Play-Off of the 2023 Rugby World Cup?
The remaining fixtures of France 2023 will take place on the following dates:
Friday, October 27
Third-place play-off: Argentina vs. England – 21:00, Stade de France, Saint-Denis.
Saturday, October 28
Final: New Zealand vs. South Africa – 21:00, Stade de France, Saint-Denis.
Team News
As the anticipation builds, rugby fans will be eager to learn more about the team compositions for the final. New Zealand’s Mark Telea made a return to the squad after a disciplinary infraction, while Leicester Fainga’anuku was left out. The All Blacks will also have their all-time leading appearance maker, Sam Whitelock, and Brodie Retallick available in the lock position.
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South Africa’s Mannie Libbok was pulled off early in the semi-final against England, making Handre Pollard’s prospects of starting on Saturday even more enticing following his eventful return from injury. Stay tuned as the teams’ lineups will be revealed.
Referee Announcement
In a significant development, it has been confirmed that Wayne Barnes will take charge of the Rugby World Cup 2023 final between New Zealand and South Africa at Stade de France on Saturday, October 28. Barnes, known for his experience and skill in officiating high-stakes matches, will play a pivotal role in ensuring a fair and exciting contest between these two rugby powerhouses.
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Where to Watch?
You can watch the Rugby World Cup final from South Africa, SuperSport is the place to go. There are various SuperSport packages available, whether you want to watch via DStv or stream.
