England vs Japan Prediction and Betting Tips

🏈 Rugby World Cup 2023 Match Preview

⏰ 17 September 2023 - 23:00 GMT +1

⏰ 18 September 2023 - 05:00 AEST

🏟 Stadium - Stade Geoffroy-Guichard (Saint-Étienne)

The two opening weekend winners in Pool D face off on Sunday night as 2019 Rugby World Cup runners-up England take on 2019 hosts Japan at the Stade de Nice. Despite poor form, suspensions and another early red card, England beat Argentina 27-10 with all their points from George Ford's boot. Japan overcame an early deficit to defeat RWC newcomers Chile 48-12, claiming a bonus point to sit top of the pool.

England had been written off ahead of their opener, with some even predicting a second pool stage exit in three World Cups. But Steve Borthwick's side produced a brilliant and powerful display that prompted the coach to point to a feeling they had been "written off too soon." He'll hope that siege mentality from Marseille can continue through the tournament.

England make three changes, with Kyle Sinckler, Joe Marler starting up front and number eight Lewis Ludlam impressing off the bench versus Argentina. However, flanker Tom Curry is out suspended after a dangerous tackle red card just three minutes in. He joins captain Owen Farrell, who completes a four-match ban Sunday. That's three reds for dangerous tackles in four games, which needs to change for a deep England run. The 2003 champs had 100% lineout success last round, but would trade that to avoid another red and get the win here.

The Brave Blossoms also had strong lineouts last week at 92.9%, but face a much tougher test across the park. In three previous meetings, Japan has struggled against England, including a 52-13 defeat at Twickenham last November.

But coach Jamie Joseph was pleased his side handled the potential banana skin of Chile, having warned them it was their "World Cup final." Post-match, Joseph said Chile's tackling was "like demons", so he's had Japan training under extreme pressure for the expected England kicking. Japan's intricate attack could produce an upset if it clicks. If they make it two from two, it will be a fitting celebration for ex-skipper Michael Leitch in his record 15th World Cup appearance.

📋 Players to watch:

• England hooker Jamie George already has two tries in 2023.
• Japan winger Jone Naikabula scored last week before being replaced on 60 minutes as Joseph eyed this clash.

⚡ Match Facts:

• England beat Argentina 27-10 in their RWC opener despite poor form and another early red card
• All of England's points came from George Ford's boot
• Japan defeated RWC newcomers Chile 48-12 to claim a bonus point and sit top of Pool D
• England had been written off ahead of the tournament but played powerfully in their win
• They make 3 changes to the starting lineup with Sinckler, Marler and Ludlam coming in
• Tom Curry is suspended after a dangerous tackle red card against Argentina
• It's England's 3rd dangerous tackle red card in 4 matches
• England had 100% lineout success last round
• Japan also had strong lineouts at 92.9% but faces a tougher test against England
• Japan has struggled in previous meetings, including a 52-13 loss to England in November 2022
• Michael Leitch will set Japan's RWC appearance record with his 15th cap
• Jamie George has scored 2 tries already for England in 2023
• Jone Naikabula scored for Japan last week before being replaced to be fresh for this match
• England has conceded at least 10 points in 20 straight matches

Bookie	Take Action
	BET ON UNIBET
	BET ON PLAYUP
	BET ON PICKLEBET

💡 Match Prediction:

This matchup seems to favour England, even though Japan sits atop Pool D after the opening round. England showed their quality in a powerful win over Argentina, despite entering with poor form and another red card. If they can avoid further cards, their lineout prowess, kicking game and siege mentality could overwhelm Japan.

However, Japan's intricate attacking style could trouble England, especially with the hosts out to celebrate captain Michael Leitch's record appearance. Japan will need to withstand England's pressure and take their chances to have a shot at an upset.

Based on their previous dominant wins over Japan and solid RWC opener, England should control this match. But Japan has enough attacking threats to potentially stay within 20 points if they execute.

Prediction: England by 15-20 points

Betting Tips: England -16.5 spread - Under 52.5 total points

I'm backing England to cover a 16.5-point spread, with their defense and kicking game helping hold Japan under 20 points. And with both teams likely to focus on ball control, the total stays under 52.5. A 30-15 England win covers both bets.