England 40-16 Australia

England underlined their Rugby World Cup intentions with a convincing 40-16 victory over Australia on Saturday. Closely poised at 17-9 at half-time, Eddie Jones’ side scored two second half tries to setup a semi-final clash against reigning World Champions New Zealand.

Watson secured the win with a try four minutes from time, as the winger intercepted a looping pass to put the result beyond doubt. Underhill was at his imperious best in a hard-hitting display, which saw the back rower make 20 tackles. The All Blacks are now in waiting, as England face their toughest test yet.

South Africa 26-3 Japan

Japan’s fairytale campaign came to an end yesterday, as South Africa proved too strong for the host nation. After victories against Ireland and Scotland in the pool stages, Japan were looking for another scalp in the quarter-final. The contest was closely-poised for 65 minutes, but a try from Faf de Klerk and a second of the game for Makazole Mapimpi saw the Springboks secure their passage into the semi-final.

Louw came off the bench in the closing stages to seal the victory, with Wales next up for his side on Sunday.

International round-up - England and South Africa seal semi-final spots

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