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What the South African papers say

In an article highlighting South Africa's points of weakness, Bruce Fraser of The Sowetan admits the Springboks need to improve their scrummaging, neuter Andrew Sheridan and prevent Jonny Wilkinson kicking England to victory. He also suspects, however, that Bryan Habana could decide the match.

In the Mail & Guardian, Andy Capostagno says that he expects South Africa to win on Saturday but does not think victory will have the same far-reaching effect of their 1995 World Cup triumph. "The result won't be bandied around as an example of nation-building," Capostagno writes. "By the time the next international season rolls around, it will be business as usual."

What the South African papers say

The Mail & Guardian reports that sales of biltong have increased as punters seek something to chew on during Springboks games. Shop-owners, however, say beer has not shifted as many units as expected.

A story on Soweto Rugby Club in The Star says that South Africa's success is helping to promote the sport among the children of townships who traditionally play football. In a column for the newspaper for the region, The Sowetan, Tim Modise, a member of the 2010 football World Cup organising committtee, confirms this with an article that praises Jake White's team.

What the South African papers say

Eddie Jones, the South Africa technical advisor, has warned that the Springboks' have not nearly fulfilled their capability in France. Quoted in The Herald, Jones said:  “The South Africans have really impressed me with the amount of talent they have. They are humble guys, but they have enormous potential and I don't think we have seen them anywhere near their best as yet at this RWC."

What the South African papers say

England's footballers have traditionally been inept at penalty-kicks, crashing out of several major tournaments through their inability to beat a goalkeeper from 12 yards. Perish the thought but there is the possibility that the nerve of our rugby counterparts could be equally tested on Saturday night, with the destination of the Webb Ellis Trophy being decided in a sudden death shoot-out should scores be level after extra-time.

Writing in Johannesburg's Mail & Guardian, Luke Phillips explains how South Africa have begun meticulous preparations for such a conclusion, with coach Jake White even suggesting he might select five reliable dead-ball kickers in his XV. Phillips writes: "South Africa are ready for a penalty shoot-out should the World Cup final against England on Saturday be called a stalemate after extra-time."

What the South African papers say

England's footballers have traditionally been inept at penalty-kicks, crashing out of several major tournaments through their inability to beat a goalkeeper from 12 yards. Perish the thought but there is the possibility that the nerve of our rugby counterparts could be equally tested on Saturday night, with the destination of the Webb Ellis Trophy being decided in a sudden death shoot-out should scores be level after extra-time.

Writing in Johannesburg's Mail & Guardian, Luke Phillips explains how South Africa have begun meticulous preparations for such a conclusion, with coach Jake White even suggesting he might select five reliable dead-ball kickers in his XV. Phillips writes: "South Africa are ready for a penalty shoot-out should the World Cup final against England on Saturday be called a stalemate after extra-time."

What the French papers say

“The same as Cardiff” is the headline in L’Equipe after France named an unchanged team to face England after the quarter-final victory over New Zealand, but those words could also apply to the mood within the camp.

The mood in the French press this week has been one of grim determination, a sense that the team can not afford to allow the euphoria of victory over the All Blacks to effect their preparations, and the players are repeating the mantra. 

What the French papers say

Le Monde reports that, only four days before their semi-final with England, France players were living it up at the Folies-Bergere. The bad news for England is that this was hardly a scandal. Le XV had been invited to watch the musical Cabaret on their official night off.  A more pressing concern for the host nation could be reports in the same newspaper that the team will be forced to leave their training base at Marcoussis – referred to as their “cocoon” because of its privacy - by Thursday.  Jo Maso, the team manager, is believed to be looking for a new facility near Paris.

L’Equipe, the daily sports paper, was more concerned with the make-up of the squad. Should Bernard Laporte stick with the heroes of New Zealand or adapt the team for the different challenge provided by England. In the end the debate – should Frederic Michalak be brought off the bench at No 10 and should David Skrela come down from the stands for a more active role – proved irrelevant. Laporte announced an unchanged team from the “victorious heroes” of the quarter-finals.

Catch up on the previous edition of what the French papers say here.

DOUG GRATTON