The 2019 Rugby World Cup reaches its knockout stages this weekend, and there are fantastic stories across all of the matchups.
With plenty of incredible players on show, it is sure to be a fantastic weekend of action.
Our Rugby Union betting expert guides you through the best bets from the World Cup quarter-finals.
England v Australia
A rematch of one of the all-time World Cup final classics, England v Australia is always a tasty affair. With Eddie Jones looking to knock out his home nation, the Red Rose enter as comfortable 2/7 favourites. However, these games never follow the script, and Australia always performs when their backs are against the wall.
The Aussies are 5/2 to cause the upset and there is a real chance that happens. Both sides have shuffled their midfield, and the tactical kicking battle should be fascinating between the halfbacks. The handicap is a very high 7.5 points, and encounters between these two sides are normally tight. Expect an England win, but Australia to keep it tight, so back Australia +7.5 at 10/11 with Grosvenorsport.com.
New Zealand v Ireland
In a microcosm of statistics, Ireland have the upper hand on New Zealand in recent fixtures, with two wins and a narrow loss in the last three games. However, on the pitch, their fortunes are highly contrasting. New Zealand have smoothly progressed in the groups without getting out of second gear, while Ireland suffered a shock defeat to Japan in the pools, leading to this early clash.
The Kiwis are a comfortable 1/5, while Ireland are 7/2. I would be astounded if Ireland perform anything like they did this time last year, but you never know with Joe Schmidt, who could be coaching his last game for the Irish. However, one thing that is certain is big players step up in big games. Beauden Barrett, widely regarded as one of the best in the world, should show up in a big way and can be backed to score anytime at 7/4.
Wales v France
In the first half of the very first Six Nations game this year, these teams looked a long way apart. France were firing, Wales looked lacklustre, and it could have been a renaissance for the French.
Naturally, France imploded, Wales secured a Grand Slam, reached No.1 in the world rankings for the first time, and have a real shot of making the final in this tournament.
France haven’t set the world alight in a long time, but the signs are there that they could spark to life. With an exciting, unpredictable young core, they can score points in a hurry. France are 9/4, while Wales are 1/3.
If Wales can score early and apply scoreboard pressure to France, this tie could be over quite early. Take Wales on the handicap (-6.5) at 5/6 as they look to get revenge for the 2011 semi-final.
Japan v South Africa
The tie of the round for neutrals. A rematch of the ‘Brighton Miracle’, and the hosts versus most people’s quiet favourite. Japan have thrilled the rugby world with their scintillating brand of running rugby, while South Africa have bounced back from their opening loss to the All Blacks by dismantling all opposition. This should be an excellent matchup between two very different styles of play and should be absolutely thrilling viewing.
Japan are considerable underdogs at 9/2, while the Boks are 1/7 favourites. The handicap is a considerable two scores, but this has been a fairy-tale World Cup for the Brave Blossoms, and who is to say it ends here? Keep the faith in the unbelievable, and back the hosts to reach an improbable semi-final.
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