On Sunday, two rugby heavyweights will collide when 2003 World Cup champions England take on Fiji in the quarter-finals of Rugby World Cup 2019. The match promises to be a titanic tussle between two sides rich in attacking talent.
England Riding High
England have reached the quarter-finals for the 9th time in the last 10 World Cups, underlining their consistency at rugby’s showpiece event. With players like Jonny May, Alex Mitchell and captain Owen Farrell in the ranks, England have swept through the pool stage undefeated.
While they will miss the power of banned No.8 Billy Vunipola, his understudy Ben Earl has stepped up superbly. The young back-rower tops England’s stats for carries and tackles, and has provided relentless energy around the park. If England are to beat Fiji, Earl will need another mammoth performance. Additionally, you can also read about- All Blacks Triumph Over Ireland in Epic Rugby World Cup Quarterfinal
Fiji Primed for Boilover
Despite being underdogs, Fiji come into this match full of confidence. Having qualified for the knockout rounds for the first time since 2007, Fiji are ready to shake up the World Cup. Much will depend on superstar winger Semi Radradra rediscovering his best form after a mixed pool stage.
Fiji also boast Viliame Mata, a dynamic No.8 who balances bone-crunching defense with subtle offloads and deft footwork. If Mata and Radradra click, Fiji could pull off a famous upset. General Marshaling the troops at halfback is the livewire Frank Lomani, whose speed and vision could unlock England. If you want you can also read- Argentina Stuns Wales in Epic Rugby World Cup Quarterfinal Upset
A place in the semi-finals awaits the winner of this mouthwatering match-up. With the world watching, England and Fiji are set to deliver 80 minutes of exhilarating rugby worthy of the World Cup stage.
You May Find Interest: France’s Rugby World Cup Winning Economically As Well As On The Pitch