As expected, South Africa enters this clash as the favourite, but Scotland’s improved form has them aiming for an upset on home turf.
Image: Supplied
The Autumn Nations Series is heating up as the Springboks prepare to take on Scotland at the iconic Scottish Gas Murrayfield Stadium in Edinburgh. Both teams have plenty to prove as they look to build momentum going into the year-end internationals. With South Africa’s reputation as reigning world champions and Scotland’s recent performance boost, this match has all the ingredients for an intense battle. For fans and bettors alike, here’s a breakdown of the betting odds, factors influencing the game, and some top betting tips.
Kick-off: Sunday, 10 November 2024, 18:10 SAST (16:10 GMT)
Venue: Scottish Gas Murrayfield Stadium, Edinburgh
As expected, South Africa enters this clash as the favourite, but Scotland’s improved form has them aiming for an upset on home turf. Here are the latest odds from Betway:
Win Markets
Halftime/Fulltime Markets
Handicap Betting
Winning Margin
Highest Scoring Half
Recent Form and Head-to-Head Record
South Africa and Scotland last faced each other in the 2023 Rugby World Cup pool stages, where the Springboks emerged victorious with a decisive 18-3 win. In fact, Scotland hasn’t defeated South Africa since 2010, with the Springboks leading the head-to-head count comfortably. Recent form for South Africa shows them in strong shape, with impressive wins over Australia and New Zealand in the Rugby Championship. Scotland, however, has shown glimpses of growth, with a recent win against Fiji, and will look to leverage their home advantage.
Springbok Selection Strategy
Rassie Erasmus has kept fans guessing with a delayed team announcement, leaving crucial positions still open, including scrum-half, fly-half, and tighthead prop. With Frans Malherbe ruled out due to injury, the tighthead prop position could impact the scrum battle significantly, especially as Scotland’s scrummaging unit is known for its resilience. For scrum-half and fly-half, Erasmus has an array of choices, including the likes of Manie Libbok, Handre Pollard, and Grant Williams, giving the Springboks both experience and fresh attacking options.
The backline selection, particularly between Willie le Roux and Aphelele Fassi at full-back, could set the tone for the Springboks’ approach. Fassi offers a pace-driven, strike-runner style, whereas Le Roux provides strategic playmaking.
Scotland’s Key Absences and Line-Up
Scotland’s line-up, too, is facing key changes. The absence of winger Darcy Graham due to a concussion is a notable setback. Known for his try-scoring prowess, Graham would have been crucial in challenging South Africa’s defence. Scotland, however, is bolstered by the potential return of players like Finn Russell and Blair Kinghorn, who bring a creative and structured attack that could challenge the Springboks. Playing on home soil at Murrayfield, Scotland’s physicality and pace will test the Springboks’ resolve in a challenging environment.
Tactical Approaches and Coaching
South Africa’s appointment of Tony Brown to the coaching team has added a new dynamic to the Springbok attack, allowing for more creativity and unpredictability. Meanwhile, Scotland head coach Gregor Townsend has instilled a tactical, disciplined style that is well-suited to playing the world champions. Expect a fierce battle in the first half as both teams look to dominate early.
Rugby analysts are tipping South Africa for the win, but not without some tight moments, especially in the opening stages. With a strong winning streak over Scotland, the Springboks are expected to maintain their edge. However, Scotland’s determination to prove themselves and the raucous Murrayfield crowd could push the game closer than anticipated.
Some experts, such as those at ESPN, foresee a South African win by around 10-12 points, while Planet Rugby’s poll indicates strong backing for the Springboks but suggests Scotland could make things challenging, particularly if they secure early points.
If you’re planning to place a bet on this fixture, here are some tips:
1. Winning Margin: South Africa by 8-14 Points
With South Africa’s experience and Scotland’s recent improvements, a winning margin of 8-14 points at 3.60 is a solid option. This margin allows for a closely contested game while still favouring the Springboks to come out on top.
2. Halftime/Fulltime Markets: South Africa/South Africa
With South Africa likely to set the pace early on, backing the Springboks to lead at halftime and fulltime at odds of 1.57 provides a reasonable payout while staying on the safer side.
3. Winning Margin Alternative: South Africa by 15+ Points
For those who anticipate a stronger Springbok showing, betting on South Africa to win by 15 or more points offers odds of 2.75. Given Scotland’s missing players, particularly Graham, this is a viable bet if South Africa’s line-up remains largely first-choice.
4. First Half Highest Scoring Half
If you think both teams will come out firing and aim to gain an early lead, backing the first half to be the highest-scoring half at 1.87 could offer good value.
5. Hot Tip: Halftime/Fulltime (Scotland/South Africa)
For a bolder bet, you might consider backing Scotland to lead at halftime but South Africa to win by fulltime, offered at odds of 5.80. This scenario takes into account Scotland’s home-field advantage, especially with the crowd’s energy pushing them forward in the early stages.
South Africa’s encounter with Scotland is shaping up to be an intense, physical showdown at Murrayfield. With a strong line-up and key players like Eben Etzebeth, Siya Kolisi, and Handre Pollard expected to feature, the Springboks are well-positioned to extend their winning streak over the Scots. While the odds favour South Africa, Scotland’s resilience and home advantage make them a challenging opponent.
As we look ahead to Sunday’s game, the betting odds indicate potential for a close contest, particularly in the first half. For Springbok fans and rugby enthusiasts, this match promises thrilling action, high stakes, and strategic play from both teams.
Date: Sunday 10 November 2024
Kick-off: 18:10 SAST (16:10 GMT)
Venue: Scottish Gas Murrayfield, Edinburgh
Referee: Christophe Ridley (England)
Assistant Referees: Luke Pearce (England), Craig Evans (Wales)
TMO: Ian Tempest (England)