Rugby World Cup: England in awe of semi-final opponents South Africa

England defence coach Kevin Sinfield said his side were "in awe" of South Africa's Rugby World Cup quarter-final performance before the teams meet in the last four this weekend.

The Springboks edged host nation France by a single point last weekend in a thrilling encounter to set-up Saturday's semi-final between the reigning champions and England at the Stade de France in Paris.

"We saw the game on Saturday evening and were in awe of the physicality that they brought," Sinfield said. "It was a great showcase for what rugby is about.

"We have the utmost respect for them," he added.

The game in the French capital will be a rerun of the 2019 World Cup final in Japan, which the Springboks dominated to win 32-12. England have changed their coaching staff with Steve Borthwick now in charge after Eddie Jones was sacked last December.

For South Africa, Rassie Erasmus has moved up to a director of rugby role with Jacques Nienaber promoted from his assistant to head coach.

Many of the Springboks' 2019 squad also remain, including emblematic captain Siya Kolisi, fleet-footed winger Cheslin Kolbe and experienced half-backs Faf de Klerk and Handre Pollard.

"I think some will use it and I think some won't be bothered at all because a lot has changed in four years," Sinfield said of the defeat in the 2019 final.

"I know they have a lot of continuity in their coaching team and a lot of their players, but we're in 2023 now.

"We're in France, in Paris, and we look forward to this weekend," he added.