The 2023 Rugby World Cup in France is fast approaching. With the world’s top teams competing for the coveted Webb Ellis Cup, rugby betting sites have New Zealand as the pre-tournament favourite at 3.75 odds, according to Easybet.co.za

Let’s analyse the top contenders’ chances and make some fearless predictions. 

Why New Zealand Looks Primed for Glory

The All Blacks seek an unprecedented fourth Rugby World Cup title, and with a stacked squad, they are justified odds-on favourites. Led by veterans like Aaron Smith and Brodie Retallick, along with rising stars like Jordie Barrett, New Zealand has an ideal blend of experience and youth. Their clinical skills, sublime handling, and big-game poise make them the team to beat.

France’s Home Hopes

The host nation France, sits at 4.00 odds to deliver some long-awaited home glory. This means if you bet R100, you would receive R400 back if you win your bet. Les Bleus will lean on stalwarts like Antoine Dupont and Romain Ntamack, hoping vociferous home support can help them power past the All Blacks and Springboks. It’s been over a decade since their last final appearance – can France seize this opportunity?

Don’t Overlook the Defending Champs

South Africa may no longer be the frontrunners, but at 4.50 odds, the Springboks remain a serious threat. Their physicality at the breakdown, set piece dominance, and suffocating defence cannot be discounted. Led by Siya Kolisi, the Boks know how to grind out victories when it matters most.

Other Contenders and Dark Horses

Ireland (5.50) and Australia (12.00) will look to shake up the odds, while Argentina (26.00) and Scotland (34.00) loom as potential bracket busters. But realistically, it appears to be a three-horse race at the top.

The Verdict

We predict the Boks will repeat as champions. Their pack and defence are unmatched, and they have proven they know how to win ugly on the global stage. Handling pressure and expectations will be crucial, but the Springboks have the right leaders and mentality to overcome New Zealand and France.

RWC 2023 looks to be highly competitive, however. New Zealand and France could give South Africa all they can handle. But the Boks have just enough to grind out another exhilarating victory in the final.

Get in on the Action

As the countdown continues to the 2023 Rugby World Cup, there’s no better way for fans to engage than by putting some skin in the game.

Rugby lends itself well to exciting betting opportunities. A handicap bet, for example, allows you to give or get points from the bookmaker to even out the contest. If South Africa played Scotland, the Boks may start out with -11.5 points, meaning they’d need to win by 12 or more for bettors to cash in.

Easybet offers an ideal platform for new rugby bettors looking to place bets on all the World Cup matches and outcomes. Their competitive odds, safe and legal betting, and R50 Sign Up Bonus (promo code RUGBY50) make them a top choice to start your Rugby World Cup betting journey.

It promises to be a thrilling tournament. Who do you think will ultimately prevail at the 2023 Rugby World Cup?