Rugby World Cup: South Africa beat England in semi-finals

England team being applauded by South Africa teamImage source, Adam Pretty - World Rugby
Image caption,

Tough luck England... despite some solid kicks from captain Owen Farrell, the team didn't make it into the world cup finals

England have lost out on a place in the Rugby World Cup final.

They were beaten by South Africa in the semi-final in Paris on Saturday evening.

Despite a strong start, South Africa managed to overtake England in the final three minutes, and win by just one point.

Next weekend's final will see South Africa taking on New Zealand for a chance to raise the World Cup trophy.

Match breakdown

Image source, Hannah Peters
Image caption,

England's Joe Marler was tough against the South African defence

The last time England and South Africa faced each other in a world cup was in the final in 2019, when South Africa won the tournament.

England started out strong, with some good penalty kicks and even a surprise drop-goal from captain Owen Farrell.

Image source, ANTONIN THUILLIER
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Owen Farrell's expert kicking made gave England some handy points

However, by the 68th minute, South Africa had broken past England's defensive line and scored a try.

After they converted the try, South Africa were only two points behind England.

Image source, Julian Finney - World Rugby
Image caption,

South Africa's RG Snyman took the ball over the line, scoring a try

England gave away a penalty with three minutes before the end of the game. South Africa's Handre Pollard took the kick and got the team another three points - putting them ahead.

The England team tried to fight back, but it was too late. The whistle blew, and South Africa had made it through to the final.

Image source, Cameron Spencer

What's next for England?

If you want to see more action from this team, then you can watch England face Argentina on Friday.

They'll be competing for third place in the tournament. Argentina were beaten by New Zealand in the semi-finals.

Who is in the World Cup final?

Image source, Cameron Spencer
Image caption,

Will it be New Zealand or South Africa that raises the rugby world cup trophy this year?

South Africa - who won the last men's Rugby World Cup - will be playing against New Zealand.

New Zealand are no strangers to world cup wins. The men's team have lifted the trophy three times before - so it'll certainly be an exciting game!