The pool stages of the Rugby World will wrap up within less than a week, and by next weekend, we will know who progresses to the quarter finals. After their defeat to the Japanese, the Springboks came back strong and are now top of their group after resoundingly defeating the USA yesterday. While South Africa faced an upset with the Springbok’s opening match, England faced an even greater upset, with their national team going out in the pool stages, regardless of what happens in their next match. It marks the first time in the history of the Rugby World Cup that a host nation fails to progress from the pool stages.
However, now that we are close to the end of the pool stages, it’s becoming clearer who will battle it out in the quarter finals. So far, some teams have guaranteed their progression to the knockout stages, with the only question left for some is whether they place first or second in their groups.
But now, let’s see who might be facing off in the knockout stages.
The Road to the Final
South Africa, having defeated the USA, now progress to Quarter Final 1. Their opponent will only be revealed once Australia has played Wales, establishing the first and second places of Pool A. The losing side of this match (second place) will be the opponent for South Africa, with the winner (first place) set to play against whoever places second in pool B, which looks to be Scotland, provided they win their next match, although there may be surprises as there have been plenty already in this Rugby World Cup.
Wondering where you can watch the rest of the tournament?
There are establishments throughout South Africa that are offering gorgeous setups with enticing deals to ensure you have a memorable experience watching the Rugby World Cup of 2015. While we can’t name all of them, we will provide you with some information on where you can enjoy the rest of this tournament.
Sgt Pepper, Stellenbosch
The highly rated and casual Sgt Pepper, renowned for its pizzas, offers guests a relaxed setting. Here, they can enjoy interestingly named yet delicious pizzas such as Captain Jack or Uncle Basil, all featuring innovative and fresh toppings, while catching all the action of the Rugby World Cup with 13 flat-screens TVs, at the bar, upstairs and beneath a Bedouin tent. During half-time, get some sun on their balcony.
Address: 15 Ryneveld St, Stellenbosch
Phone: +27(0)21 883 3799
Open Daily: 11:00 – 22:00
The Thirsty Scarecrow, Stellenbosch
In this colourful setting in the heart of Stellenbosch, is a spacious, contemporary and casual establishment where guests can indulge in original craft beer, scrumptious fish, top quality wine and tempting pizzas, with a unique view of colourful scarecrows and beyond to the wine farms and mountains. With this appealing offer, the venue has proven to be a popular spot for watching rugby with flat-screen TVs at the bar, ensuring that it is yet another gorgeous venue where you can enjoy the Rugby World Cup.
Address: Corner of R44 and Annandale Road, Mooiberge, Stellenbosch
Phone: +27(0)21 881 3444
Monday: 15:00 – 23:00
Tuesday:15:00 – 23:00
Wednesday:11:00 – 23:00
Thursday: 11:00 – 23:00
Friday: 11:00 – 23:00
Saturday: 11:00 – 23:00
Sunday: 11:00 – 23:00
The Happy Oak, Stellenbosch
This lively authentic Irish restaurant and pub with a lounge area has also become a firm favourite setting in which to watch sport with multiple flat-screen TVs around the venue. Known for their amazing service and superb food that is said to satisfy any craving, The Happy Oak is definitely a place to visit with the friends while watching the intense contest of the Rugby World Cup of 2015.
Address: 62 Andringa Street, Stellenbosch
Phone: +27(0)21 300 7279
Open Daily: 10:00 – 02:00
Happy Hour: 17:30 – 18:30
Are you ready for the knockout stages?
While the pool stages gave teams several chances to accumulate points to progress, the knockout stages by contrast mean that losing or drawing are not options. We know that the Springboks will be getting ready, but are you? Get in touch with these establishments and you will be sure to have an exquisite time watching the rest of the Rugby World Cup. And let’s not forget to continue supporting our boys in green and gold. Go Bokke!