England vs Fiji LIVE! Rugby World Cup 2023 result, match stream and latest updates today

England vs Fiji LIVE!

England held off a spirited late fightback to seal their place in the Rugby World Cup semi-finals on Sunday. Steve Borthwick’s side delivered an impressive display full of physicality and defensive ferocity to take control of the last-eight clash in Marseille, carving out handy leads thanks to tries from Manu Tuilagi and Joe Marchant plus the boot of captain Owen Farrell, restored to fly-half at the expense of George Ford with Marcus Smith deployed from the outset at full-back.

However, Fiji refused to surrender meekly and were given hope by No 8 Viliame Mata before two quick-fire tries in four minutes from Peni Ravai and Vilimoni Botitu stunned England and levelled up the game heading into the last 10 minutes. But Farrell’s enduring class and experience shone through, the skipper slotting a key drop goal and later adding a fifth penalty to guide his team safely into the semis by a six-point margin.

England will discover their next opponents later on, when hosts France take on defending champions South Africa in a mammoth fourth quarter-final showdown in Paris. Follow England vs Fiji reaction live below, with expert analysis from Standard Sport’s Nick Purewal at the Stade Velodrome.

England vs Fiji latest news

• Farrell drop goal and penalty seals dramatic England win

• TRY! Botitu touches down to level quarter-final

• TRY! Game on after Peni Ravai score

• Farrell penalties have England leading by 11 at the break

• TRY! Classy Mata hits back despite Habosi yellow

• TRY! Marchant goes over for second England score

• TRY! Tuilagi scores after early Farrell penalty

England player ratings

19:14 , George Flood

Replacements

Joe Marler (for Genge, 60) – 7

Kept his head and kept grinding away as England slipped off then recovered to drive through.

Kyle Sinckler (for Cole, 59) – 7

Had to grin and bear it through Fiji’s last-gasp purple patch but managed to do exactly that.

George Martin (for Chessum, 70) – 7

Another to keep driving on at the death to thwart Fiji’s ambitions of a big recovery.

Billy Vunipola (for Curry, 72) – 7

Put himself about well late on.

Danny Care (for Mitchell, 59) – 7

Drove the tempo well again when he had chance to get England on the ball.

Ollie Lawrence (for Smith, blood 23-33, for May, 64) – 7

Once again showed why England rate him so highly with a calm, mature and physical showing.

England player ratings

19:13 , George Flood

Forwards

Ellis Genge – 8

This was a return to the Baby Rhino line-busting, ball-carrying Genge England know and love best.

Jamie George – 8

The set-piece functioned in style and the Saracens star delivered another big showing for England.

Dan Cole – 7

Delivered a tone-setting performance in set-piece and tight duties to lay the vital platform.

Maro Itoje – 8

The Saracens talisman insisted he would be back to his best and this was his strongest England showing in some time.

Ollie Chessum – 8

Another vital, gritty, hard-working showing from one of the most important components in England’s scrum and lineout.

Courtney Lawes – 8

One turnover stunned Fiji and completely turned the early momentum on its head in Marseille. Measured and merciless.

Tom Curry – 6

Not quite able to get onto the ball as much as he would have liked but physical, bullish – and with a lot more to come it seems.

Ben Earl – 9

His transformation has been phenomenal. England’s man of the World Cup delivered again and he deserves all the plaudits that will come his way and more.

England player ratings

19:13 , George Flood

Backs

Marcus Smith – 6

Rode out one extremely risky break and dealt with a broken nose to add just enough poise to England’s back-field set-up.

Jonny May – 6

Dug out a tap-tackle on Waisea Nayacalevu just when the Fiji captain looked bound for the whitewash.

Joe Marchant – 8

A fine turn from one of England’s World Cup success stories. Playing with real confidence and grit.

Manu Tuilagi – 8

A return to top form for England’s battering-ram centre. How they will need more of the same in the next fortnight.

Elliot Daly – 7

A very solid showing from one of England’s most versatile and reliable operators.

Owen Farrell – 9

The captain and talisman delivered in every facet to prove exactly why he had been restored to fly-half for this clash. Has to stay there now for England.

Alex Mitchell – 7

Kept the ball fizzing around and his tempo driving proved a real feature when England could get their phase play going.

Nick Purewal’s match report from Marseille

19:11 , George Flood

Ben Earl raced half the length of the Stade Velodrome pitch, steaming away from all chasers to seal England’s 30-24 Rugby World Cup quarter-final win over Fiji.

The Saracens back-rower blitzed clear of all the cover to stop Fiji’s ferocious recovery in its tracks.

As the Pacific Islanders tried one poach too many at the breakdown after only just stopping Earl scoring himself, Owen Farrell stepped up and slotted his fifth penalty of a madcap Marseille encounter.

England had led 24-10 on 52 minutes, only to see that advantage evaporate as Fiji delivered two stunning scores in four minutes to level the last-eight clash.

A Farrell drop goal edged England back into the lead, before that Earl break and the skipper’s final penalty took the Red Rose men through – but only just.

Click here to read the report in full

Steve Borthwick reaction

18:43 , George Flood

“I thought the players were magnificent, the whole squad worked hard to get that result,” the England head coach told ITV.

"After the performance you have to give immense credit to Fiji - they’ve had a fantastic World Cup and I’m delighted we found a way to win that game.

"For the vast majority we were in control there was a spell midway through the second half where they scored back-to-back tries and they’re the only team in the world who can do that. But I was pleased with how the players handled it thereafter.

"A lot has been written about these players and what I see is a group who can handle and rise to these occasions.

"We’ve had great week. It's been a brilliant part of the world to prepare but Paris is a bit special so we are looking forward to it.

"We don’t forget there’s a fair number of people who said we won’t make it out of group and a fair number who said we would lose tonight and we're going to be written off again I’m sure.

“But this team is determined to be successful.”

Owen Farrell reaction

18:23 , George Flood

"It was what we expected,” the winning England captain told ITV.

They are a tough, tough team that can turn it on in the blink of an eye. I thought we started the game really well. We really got after it in that first half.

“We always knew Fiji were going to have some good patches and they did. To find a way to win and get through to the semi-finals is a big step forward but we know we have plenty of work to do.

“The forwards did a great job and put it on the plate for us. I just had to knock it [the drop goal] over.”

England 30-24 Fiji

17:54 , George Flood

Full-time

Time to catch our breath!

A staggering finish to this quarter-final.

England advance and will face either hosts France or defending champions South Africa in Paris next Saturday.

Fiji are understandably crestfallen. What a game.

England 30-24 Fiji

17:53 , George Flood

86 mins: Still we play on in Marseille!

Fiji back with ball in hand just inside the England half, building back through the phases and trying to force a last-gasp opening.

But there’s the turnover from Lawes! Doge off his feet at the breakdown and then holding on.

Farrell has the ball and pelts it into touch!

ENGLAND ARE INTO THE RUGBY WORLD CUP SEMI-FINALS! INCREDIBLE DRAMA IN MARSEILLE!

England 30-24 Fiji

17:51 , George Flood

84 mins: It’s a deliberate knock-on from the England captain!

Fiji penalty, no card for Farrell.

Oh that’s a dreadful kick to touch from Fiji!

They needed to boom that right into the corner.

Instead it’s off just inside the England half.

England 30-24 Fiji

17:50 , George Flood

82 mins: No handling mistakes from Fiji and they are up past 15 phases, but England’s defence is stellar and pushing them back - great tackle from Care.

It’s all too narrow and congested from Fiji before they finally try to open this up.

There’s a potential deliberate knock-on here from Farrell that will be checked...

England 30-24 Fiji

17:47 , George Flood

80 mins: England have bled some much-needed time off the clock at the set-piece.

There will be one final attack from Fiji past the 80-minute mark after the scrum.

It’s now or never...

England 30-24 Fiji

17:46 , George Flood

Standard Sport’s Nick Purewal at the Stade Velodrome

Ben Earl’s searing 50-metre break might just have sealed this for England.

The bullish No 8 burst free and almost went all the way, but for a tap tackle.

Fiji went off their feet trying to steal the ball, and Farrell’s fifth penalty pushed England back into a 30-24 lead.

PENALTY! England 30-24 Fiji | Owen Farrell 78'

17:44 , George Flood

78 mins: Yes he can!

Fiji now need two penalties in two minutes to force extra-time - which there has never been in a Rugby World Cup quarter-final - or a converted try to win.

It’s not over yet, but England are almost there...

England 27-24 Fiji

17:43 , George Flood

76 mins: A tremendous break from Earl! Wow - what a time for that! Fiji’s telegraphed pass was intercepted.

And England have the penalty! Vital, vital moments in this quarter-final!

Can Farrell make this a six-point lead from the tee with time quickly running out?

He’ll take his time over this...

England 27-24 Fiji

17:42 , George Flood

74 mins: To update you on the subs, Lawrence is back on for May and George Martin has replaced Chessum.

Billy Vunipola also on for Curry.

Iosefo Masi on for Fiji.

England 27-24 Fiji

17:41 , George Flood

73 mins: Fiji make a key error at a lineout deep in England territory!

It’s knocked on as they try to get their rolling maul working and Borthwick’s side will have the put-in at the scrum.

England 27-24 Fiji

17:39 , George Flood

Standard Sport’s Nick Purewal at the Stade Velodrome

Farrell’s drop goal edges England back into a three-point lead. This game is still on a knife edge.

DROP GOAL! England 27-24 Fiji | Owen Farrell 72'

17:38 , George Flood

72 mins: England batter away at that Fiji line, but the defence is standing up.

Farrell lines up for the drop goal instead and makes it!

England have the lead back with eight minutes left.

Captivating World Cup drama in Marseille.

England 24-24 Fiji

17:36 , George Flood

Standard Sport’s Nick Purewal at the Stade Velodrome

Two tries in four minutes for Fiji have stunned England.

Now the scores are locked at 24-24, and England are completely under the cosh.

They have 10 minutes to wrestle back control here.

TRY! England 24-24 Fiji | Vilimoni Botitu 69'

17:34 , George Flood

69 mins: INCREDIBLE!

Fiji score again and we are level heading into the last 10 minutes!

England have gone to pieces!

England 24-17 Fiji

17:33 , George Flood

66 mins: England need to get a grip here as Fiji pile on more pressure looking for the converted try that would tie this game up.

Nayacalevu with a massive carry to force back Farrell and a bloodied Smith is flattened by the shoulder of Radradra.

England are punished at the breakdown and luckily for them, Kuruvoli’s penalty is missed.

TRY! England 24-17 Fiji | Peni Ravai Kovekalou 64'

17:29 , George Flood

64 mins: Fiji are right back in this!

Replacement prop Peni Ravai bursts too easily through the gap between Itoje and George to touch down.

Kuruvoli converts. Game on!

England 24-10 Fiji

17:28 , George Flood

62 mins: Everything is going England’s way at the moment as they force the scrum penalty - Fiji now up into double digits in penalties coughed up.

Their ill-discipline has been very costly so far this afternoon.

In truth this previously frantic game has been rather scrappy for a while now.

England 24-10 Fiji

17:26 , George Flood

60 mins: Danny Care will get 20 minutes at scrum-half here after his late heroics to spare England’s blushes against Samoa in Lille last weekend.

Mitchell off.

Borthwick also changes his props after another penalty won at the breakdown by England’s ferocious defence, Joe Marler and Kyle Sinckler replacing Genge and Cole.

England 24-10 Fiji

17:24 , George Flood

Standard Sport’s Nick Purewal at the Stade Velodrome

Curry and Botia go at it, but the Fijian gets away with a stiff-arm because it’s open-handed.

Farrell misses a penalty shot, with the ball dropping just shy of the bar, with the game starting to break up just ahead of the hour mark.

England 24-10 Fiji

17:23 , George Flood

59 mins: The lead should really be stretched up to 17 points, but Farrell’s latest penalty falls just short of the crossbar and is run out from under the posts by Fiji.

Tempers are boiling over again now as Curry and Botia engage in a needless scrap, Farrell complaining of another slap.

England 24-10 Fiji

17:21 , George Flood

56 mins: Fiji now send on scrum-half Simione Kuruvoli and flanker Meli Derenalagi.

They replace Lomani and Tagitagivalu.

England 24-10 Fiji

17:19 , George Flood

Standard Sport’s Nick Purewal at the Stade Velodrome

Fiji’s error count keeps on gifting England routes into this contest.

England are seizing upon them, and Farrell’s fourth penalty stretches the lead to 14 points.

Ellis Genge has delivered several barnstorming runs in this clash, to power back to his very best.

PENALTY! England 24-10 Fiji | Owen Farrell 53'

17:17 , George Flood

53 mins: Farrell wisely wants to keep the scoreboard ticking over after another England penalty - this time for offside.

Smith thankfully back up after an awkward twisting hit straight to the knee during that latest attack.

England 21-10 Fiji

17:16 , George Flood

51 mins: Fiji have changed their hooker and loosehead, Peni Ravai Kovekalou and Sam Matavesi replacing Ikanivere and Mawi.

England 21-10 Fiji

17:14 , George Flood

50 mins: More brilliant handling and bruising carrying from Fiji inside the 22, but there’s a key turnover on the floor from Lawes after the initial Curry hit.

Another England turnover follows further up-field.

They are winning the crucial battles at the moment, all over the pitch.

England 21-10 Fiji

17:13 , George Flood

48 mins: Sireli Maqala has come on for Fiji on the wing. Off goes Habosi.

England 21-10 Fiji

17:11 , George Flood

47 mins: An error from Farrell there as he kicks out on the full near halfway, Fiji full-back Droasese going flying over the advertising hoarding as he almost collides with a ball girl.

Fiji move the ball beautifully after the lineout, trademark superb hands and movement as they spray it out left - only an excellent chop tackle from Earl on Radradra stops them in their tracks.

England 21-10 Fiji

17:08 , George Flood

45 mins: Fiji’s defence holds firm and they get the turnover on the line as the maul goes down!

Both sides complaining to referee Raynal now.

Genge involved in a tussle on the floor, I think with Nayacalevu - whose shirt he just won’t let go.

Was there a little slap there on the England prop? Farrell certainly thinks so.

There have been a couple of flashpoints in this game now. Emotions running high.

England 21-10 Fiji

17:06 , George Flood

44 mins: Fiji are caught with their hands in the ruck after more England pressure and Farrell opts to kick for touch rather than take another shot at goal.

It’s drilled to the corner and here comes the rolling maul...

England 21-10 Fiji

17:05 , George Flood

42 mins: Some strong early carrying from Lawes in the second half, but England are turned over and Fiji will attempt to set up their own attacking platform.

Possession is changing hands fast early in this second period, with the full-throttle pace quickly restored.

England 21-10 Fiji

17:03 , George Flood

Back underway in Marseille!

England looking to put this game to bed and seal their World Cup semi-final spot.

England 21-10 Fiji

16:59 , George Flood

Ominous signs for Fiji...

England 21-10 Fiji

16:51 , George Flood

Standard Sport’s Nick Purewal at the Stade Velodrome

England in control at half-time, leading 21-10 and already at the stage of picking off risky Fiji attacks.

Unless Fiji sharpen up their approach, then England will win this game at a canter.

Two good tries for Tuilagi and Marchant, three hard-won penalties from Farrell. Borthwick will be delighted.

England 21-10 Fiji

16:48 , George Flood

Half-time

England 21-10 Fiji

16:46 , George Flood

39 mins: Fiji are threatening before the interval, but England are doggedly hunting those breakdown turnover penalties.

This time Saracens pair Itoje and Earl combine to shut the door.

England’s defence has been brilliant and they are matching Fiji’s physicality all over the park.

Impressive stuff from the Red Rose men.

PENALTY! England 21-10 Fiji | Owen Farrell 38'

16:44 , George Flood

38 mins: Superb Mata try aside, England have defended very well indeed in this first half.

Some excellent counter-rucking earns another breakdown penalty that is drilled through the posts by Farrell.

England’s lead up to 11 points with half-time quickly approaching in Marseille.

England 18-10 Fiji

16:43 , George Flood

34 mins: Smith has returned for England after having his nose fixed and undergoing a HIA, while Habosi is also back for Fiji after his yellow card.

Blood replacement Lawrence back to the bench.

Fiji also made a change at tighthead earlier in the half, with Mesake Doge on for Luke Tagi.

Huge double hits on Itoje and Lawes provide a thumping reminder of the formidable Fiji physicality.

PENALTY! England 18-10 Fiji | Owen Farrell 34'

16:41 , George Flood

32 mins: No quiet moments in this fast and frantic first half as Fiji concede another cheap penalty that is fired over by Farrell.

England stretch their lead back out to eight, 18-10.

England 15-10 Fiji

16:39 , George Flood

England 15-10 Fiji

16:37 , George Flood

Standard Sport’s Nick Purewal at the Stade Velodrome

Habosi’s yellow card will remain just that. The wing will be back into the fray after his 10-minute sin-bin.

It’s a high degree of danger but mitigated by a late change in direction.

England 15-10 Fiji

16:36 , George Flood

Standard Sport’s Nick Purewal at the Stade Velodrome

England cannot cope with Fiji’s power driving through the tackles, they keep going through the phases in the 22 after missing the penalty.

Viliame Mata races through a gaping hole and drags Fiji back into the contest.

TRY! England 15-10 Fiji | Viliame Mata 29'

16:34 , George Flood

29 mins: Fiji hit back!

Tuilagi is done up like a kipper by the classy show and go from No 8 Mata, who crashes through to touch down the Pacific Islanders’ first try of this quarter-final.

Lomani converts. Great try.

England 15-3 Fiji

16:33 , George Flood

26 mins: Lomani hasn’t brought his shooting boots today.

Another penalty is hooked wide after another infringement from Curry.

England 15-3 Fiji

16:32 , George Flood

England 15-3 Fiji

16:30 , George Flood

Standard Sport’s Nick Purewal at the Stade Velodrome

Tom Curry is extremely lucky to avoid a yellow card for a low no-arms tackle on Josua Tuisova, that flipped the Fiji centre right over. Fiji convert the penalty to cut England’s lead to five points.

Habosi is sin-binned for a head-clash tackle with Smith, that leaves the England full-back with what looks like a broken nose.

Fiji wing Habosi’s challenge will now be under review, so there’s potential for an upgrade to a red card. Ollie Lawrence has come on for Smith while he has his blood injury tended to.

TRY! England 15-3 Fiji | Joe Marchant 23’

16:27 , George Flood

23 mins: England are in again!

A slick move is finished off by Marchant, who sells the dummy after getting the pass from Farrell, steps inside and finishes nicely under pressure.

A great attack that from England.

Fiji are also going down to 14 for the next 10 minutes as wing Habosi is shown yellow for a clash of heads with Smith after being done by the step.

Smith’s nose is pouring with blood as Ollie Lawrence comes on for now. Farrell adds the conversion after the delay and England now lead by 12.

PENALTY! England 8-3 Fiji | Frank Lomani 21'

16:26 , George Flood

21 mins: No mistake from Lomani this time from the tee and Fiji are on the board, cutting England’s early lead to five.

Curry is very fortunate there not to be shown a card for a no-arms tackle on centre Tuisova, who lands very awkwardly.

The England flanker - sent off just minutes into the opener against Argentina here last month - makes no attempt to wrap, but has his hands on the floor and gets away with it.

Just a penalty.

England 8-0 Fiji

16:24 , George Flood

England 8-0 Fiji

16:23 , George Flood

Standard Sport’s Nick Purewal at the Stade Velodrome

Viliame Mata concedes a really cheap penalty for blocking, England go to the corner for a lineout maul.

In a flash, Manu Tuilagi cuts break and busts one tackle to roll across the whitewash for a smart try.

England 8-0 Fiji

16:22 , George Flood

18 mins: Not the wisest piece of attempted counter-attacking from Smith, who is brought down and isolated in the tackle.

It’s fine counter-rucking from Fiji and they earn the breakdown penalty.

It’s a straightforward kick for scrum-half Lomani, but now he hits the post!

England carry it out before hastily booting clear.

TRY! England 8-0 Fiji | Manu Tuilagi 15'

16:18 , George Flood

15 mins: England register the first try of the afternoon in Marseille!

Tuilagi sweeps around to collect a pass and bulldoze his way through the attempted tackle to twist and touch down.

Farrell’s conversion comes back off the post! 8-0 it stays.

England 3-0 Fiji

16:17 , George Flood

13 mins: Another penalty goes England’s way after Fiji No 8 Mata is whistled for blocking Daly from competing for an aerial ball.

Farell kicks for touch and England are quickly camped on the edge of the try line after the lineout maul.

Can they finish this off?

England 3-0 Fiji

16:15 , George Flood

Standard Sport’s Nick Purewal at the Stade Velodrome

Courtney Lawes delivers England’s first big breakdown turnover as Fiji lose shape on a promising attack.

The Northampton flanker’s jackal completely reverses the momentum, allowing England to attack and force a penalty that Farrell converts to draw first blood for the Red Rose men.

PENALTY! England 3-0 Fiji | Owen Farrell 12'

16:14 , George Flood

12 mins: England cannot profit from the advantage and we’ll come back for the penalty, with Farrell quickly pointing to the posts.

He sends over a simple kick and England are off the mark.

England 0-0 Fiji

16:13 , George Flood

9 mins: Great work from Lawes to win the breakdown turnover penalty for England.

Smith also showed great resilience a few moments ago to go back at the intimidating Radradra as he powered down that left flank.

England have a penalty advantage here for not rolling away as they edge closer and closer to the Fiji try line...

England 0-0 Fiji

16:11 , George Flood

7 mins: Smith calls for the mark but Fiji will have to be very careful kicking long straight to him like that.

Genge covers a defensive error from Tuilagi to take down the probing Botitu.

Here come England, taking a quick free-kick after a scrum penalty but they are isolated in the tackle and it’s another turnover penalty from Fiji.

England 0-0 Fiji

16:08 , George Flood

4 mins: All a bit ragged for England after that lineout caused by Fiji being squeezed out down their right side - a monster carry from ‘Demolition Man’ Botia in there.

England are pinned back with another lineout deep in their own half after a kick in behind from Fiji’s stand-in fly-half Botitu.

But Borthwick’s forwards get their rolling maul working and they exit easily.

England 0-0 Fiji

16:06 , George Flood

Standard Sport’s Nick Purewal at the Stade Velodrome

Immediately England are into phase play and are far more dynamic and aggressive at the breakdown.

But as soon as the Red Rose men enter the Fiji 22, Levani Botia – who else – wins a superlative breakdown turnover.

England 0-0 Fiji

16:05 , George Flood

2 mins: An early tester for Smith under the high ball as England keep it in hand well and attack early, stretching the play twice out left and looking to unleash Tuilagi.

Curry finds Farrell, whose clever kick is gathered by May on the right wing.

Fiji’s defence are under a lot of pressure already, but it’s superb play from Botia to crash into Earl and get over the ball quickly to win the turnover deep inside his own 22.

Fiji kick for the lineout near halfway.

England vs Fiji

16:03 , George Flood

KICK-OFF

Underway in the third of four Rugby World Cup quarter-finals!

Will England gain revenge on Fiji to reach the last four?

French referee Mathieu Raynal blows his whistle and Farrell kicks to get us started after winning the pre-match coin toss.

England vs Fiji

16:00 , George Flood

So much emotion in that Fiji anthem.

Now they lay down the traditional pre-match challenge to England with the Cibi, as a booming chorus of ‘Swing Low’ rings out from the stands.

England vs Fiji

15:58 , George Flood

A perfectly-observed minute’s silence before the national anthems.

‘God Save the King’ will be preceded by ‘God Bless Fiji’.

England vs Fiji

15:55 , George Flood

Here come the teams at the Stade Velodrome!

Fiji with some songs and a prayer in their dressing room before being led out by their captain, Toulon centre Waisea Nayacalevu.

The Pacific Islanders in unfamiliar change strips of red and black today, with England in white.

England vs Fiji

15:53 , George Flood

This treatment of Owen Farrell has got to stop. It is absolutely baffling.

That’s England’s long-serving captain and now record points scorer being roundly booed before kick-off.

England vs Fiji

15:39 , George Flood

Standard Sport’s Nick Purewal at the Stade Velodrome

So 10 months of rushed, harrassed and hurried World Cup preparation under Steve Borthwick all comes down to this: England against Fiji in the pressure-cooker Stade Velodrome atmosphere.

Marcus Smith represents the boldest selection call of Borthwick’s nascent tenure as England head coach. The fly-half playing at full-back can ignite England’s attacking approach here.

But he will also have to command the backfield in defence to put England in line for the semi-finals. England should win this match, but they should not have lost to Fiji the way they did in August. Time for Borthwick and friends to deliver.

Borthwick and Farrell back Smith to shine at full-back

15:37 , George Flood

Steve Borthwick and Owen Farrell have both backed Marcus Smith to make the most of only his second-ever start at full-back this afternoon in a real selection gamble from the England head coach.

“I think Marcus has played a lot of times at 15 in the last few months or so, over this last period of time, in this World Cup, coming on in plenty of games off the bench to finish them,” said Borthwick.

“I think he’s also now an experienced international rugby player. And as I say, I think this team is the right team for what we need to do this weekend.

“I think we all see what a top-quality rugby player he is, and I think I’ve seen in many of the players in this squad I’ve seen growth and development.”

Captain Farrell said: “I’m always impressed with Marcus. I’m impressed with how much he wants to get after it.

“How much he wants the ball, how much he wants to make a difference, and from what I’ve seen so far, the bigger the occasion, the more he wants to do that. And I think in the preparation so far, he’s shown how focused he is.

“It’s not like Marcus hasn’t played in big games, that’s certainly not the case. He’s won Premierships.

“So for him to be here, what he’s shown at full-back against Chile, and what he’s shown making an impact when he’s come on, he wants to have a big impact on the game. So far he has been doing, and I see that being no different this weekend.”

15:25 , George Flood

A great atmosphere building in Marseille with just over half an hour remaining until kick-off...

Raiwalui proud of trailblazing Fiji

15:09 , George Flood

Fiji have had a fair amount of upheaval this year, with former Scotland coach Vern Cotter resigning his post just eight months out from the World Cup back in February.

They quickly appointed former lock Simon Raiwalui instead and he led them to wins over neighbours Samoa and Tonga plus Japan and England before that impressive Pool C campaign that included a first victory over Australia since 1954 was almost thrown away at the last against minnows Portugal.

Rugby is like a religion in Fiji and Raiwalui is proud that his side are leading the way and breaking down barriers for aspiring Tier Two nations looking to level up the playing field.

"It's massive for our country. We came to this tournament to succeed, we got through the first part and we want to continue," he said.

"We are a nation of 900,000 people that lives and breathes rugby, and I don't know how many Fijians worldwide.

"We had massive support from the French, from the people who come to the ground. We really want to enjoy the occasion and show our best rugby.

"First and foremost I'm proud to be a Fijian but I'm also proud of the so-called developing nations, pushing for the global game, how we can improve it and get more opportunities, how we break that barrier down.

"This World Cup has been a fantastic example of other teams coming in and playing fantastic rugby and putting on a spectacle for the world. We are proud of where we come from and we want to embrace that."

England vs Fiji

14:51 , George Flood

Standard Sport’s Nick Purewal is in position at the Stade Velodrome to share his pre-match thoughts...

Borthwick backs England to rise to knockout occasion

14:39 , George Flood

Steve Borthwick has urged his England stars to embrace the challenge and the pressure of knockout tournament rugby, knowing only too well from his own playing career how fleeting these opportunities on the biggest stage can be.

"You've got to take the opportunities that are presented to you. Rise to the occasion of this game because you never know what's around the corner," Borthwick said this week.

"As a rugby player I thought I had an opportunity in 2003 and didn't get picked. I went in 2007 and thought I'd be there in 2011, but I wasn't so I played in one tournament.

"I want the players to embrace this challenge and have the time of their lives representing England. I want them to have a fantastic memory of this World Cup.

"There's a lot of players here who have experienced knockout rugby before. There's a lot of players who have lifted a lot of trophies at different times in their careers.

"It is quite clear that this is knockout rugby. I think that these players will embrace this challenge and I think they will really rise to the occasion.

"That's my expectation and I think that's what they have done throughout this tournament. I am expecting them to rise again on Sunday against Fiji."

Tragedies can galvanise Fiji

14:27 , George Flood

Fiji have suffered two awful tragedies at this Rugby World Cup, and my heart goes out to Josua Tuisova, Sam Matavesi and their families, writes former England wing Topsy Ojo.

Tuisova’s son died after a long illness, while Matavesi’s father passed away this week. There can hardly have been a tougher two-week period for their team.

Emotionally, it can be extremely difficult to handle things like this, with your mind wandering to anywhere other than rugby. At the same time, such events can also galvanise a squad.

Click here to read the column in full

Dallaglio column: England criticism is fair and the players know it

14:18 , George Flood

Steve Borthwick thinks England had been written off ahead of the Rugby World Cup, but any and all criticism that has come their way has been justified, writes Lawrence Dallaglio.

You cannot live in cloud-cuckoo-land as England head coach.

The last two games against Ireland, they have been well beaten; the last time they played France, they were hammered by 40 points; they lost three of their four warm-up games, including a first-ever defeat by Fiji.

I think Borthwick has taken criticism of England too much to heart, to be honest. If England really think any of the criticism they have received is wildly out of line, I would love to know what they really think of their own performances, behind the scenes.

Click here to read the column in full

14:09 , George Flood

Standard Sport’s rugby correspondent Nick Purewal has arrived back at the Stade Velodrome, scene of England’s triumphant 27-10 win over Argentina on opening weekend that saw Steve Borthwick’s side prevail in impressive fashion thanks largely to the boot of George Ford despite the early dismissal of Tom Curry.

England have been to Nice and twice to Lille since then, but they will be hoping for another triumph back in the Mediterranean port city where the sun is still shining brightly - as it was for Argentina’s eventful win over Wales in yesterday’s first quarter-final contest.

Fiji have yet to play in Marseille, with their Pool C fixtures coming in Bordeaux, Saint-Etienne and Toulouse.

England vs Fiji lineups

14:03 , George Flood

Here are today’s teams in full, barring any unforeseen injuries or late changes...

England XV: Smith; May, Marchant, Tuilagi, Daly; Farrell (c), Mitchell; Genge, George, Cole; Itoje, Chessum; Lawes, Curry, Earl

Replacements: Dan, Marler, Sinckler, Martin, Vunipola, Care, Ford, Lawrence

Fiji XV: Droasese; Habosi, Nayacalevu (c), Tuisova, Radradra; Lomani, Botitu; Mawi, Ikanivere, Tagi; Nasilasila, Tuisue; Tagitagivalu, Botia, Mata

Replacements: Matavesi, Ravai, Doge, Derenalagi, Miramira, Kuruvoli, Masi, Maqala

England vs Fiji prediction

13:59 , George Flood

Kicking could be the key to this game, with Fiji having felt the effects of star fly-half Muntz’s absence in their pretty middling efforts in front of the posts during the tournament so far.

Similarly, for England the decision to go with Farrell over Ford at 10 could prove the deciding factor in whether Borthwick’s team sinks or swims in Marseille.

Fiji may have shocked the Red Rose men in the build-up to this tournament but their handling of the opener against Argentina showed they are perhaps better suited to the big game, when the chips are down and doubters most vocal.

England to win, by five to 10 points.

Fiji team news

13:56 , George Flood

Fiji’s fly-half selection is also a key talking point today, with Castres centre Vilimoni Botitu making just his third start at 10 after Teti Tela was ruled out through injury.

Sevens star Botitu was only called up to Simon Raiwalui’s squad as a late replacement for first-choice fly-half Caleb Muntz, who was ruled out of the World Cup just days before the opener against Wales.

He hardly excelled in the position against Portugal last weekend and faces an extremely tough battle with Owen Farrell this afternoon.

10 of Fiji’s starting XV today also started the historic warm-up win at Twickenham back in August, with Tevita Ikanivere making his first start of the tournament at hooker with Northampton’s Sam Matavesi on the bench after attending his father’s funeral in Cornwall this week.

Dangerous former Bristol dynamo Semi Radradra is back on the left wing, while Ilaisa Droasese returns at full-back. Gloucester’s Albert Tuisue comes into the second row to replace the injured Temo Mayanavanua and Lekima Tagitagivalu gets the nod on the openside.

Selestino Ravutaumada misses out as Vinaya Habosi moves over to the right wing.

England team news

13:42 , George Flood

As mentioned, England captain Owen Farrell is back at fly-half today with George Ford dropping to the bench.

Harlequins 10 Marcus Smith makes just his second start in any capacity at full-back after impressing in his new role in the 71-0 rout of minnows Chile in Lille and again off the bench against Samoa - the positional switch for the rapid playmaker is the brainchild of defence coach Kevin Sinfield and one that Smith has apparently relished.

High-ball specialist Freddie Steward does not even get a spot among the replacements after being a reliable ever-present at 15 for England over the last couple of years.

Joe Marchant’s selection on the wing last weekend was a puzzling one and he’s back in a familiar home in the centres this afternoon alongside Manu Tuilagi, with Elliot Daly returning on the left flank opposite Jonny May.

Steve Borthwick has resisted the urge to make any changes in the pack, with Dan Cole and Ben Earl again preferred to Kyle Sinckler and Billy Vunipola at tighthead prop and No 8 respectively.

Where to watch England vs Fiji

13:37 , George Flood

TV channel: In the UK, today’s game is available to watch live and free to air on ITV1, with coverage beginning at 3pm BST.

Live stream: Fans can also catch the quarter-final action live online via the ITVX website and app.

Welcome to England vs Fiji live coverage

13:34 , George Flood

England are in Rugby World Cup quarter-final action this afternoon as they seek sweet and swift revenge against Fiji in Marseille.

A shock 30-22 first-ever loss to the Pacific Islanders at Twickenham in a dire warm-up clash back in August felt like the nadir of a rotten 2023 for the Red Rose men, posing more serious questions about Steve Borthwick’s early tenure in charge.

However, England head into this last-eight showdown as clear favourites and with renewed confidence after answering their long list of critics with four straight wins to top Pool D, even if they needed a late Danny Care try and then try-saving tackle to avoid a full-strength team being embarrassed by inspired Samoa in Lille last weekend.

Borthwick has made some key selection gambles to face the Flying Fijians today, with captain Owen Farrell moving back to fly-half at the expense of George Ford and Marcus Smith making only his second start at full-back as Freddie Steward is dropped completely.

England hope those bold calls will ignite an attack that has still yet to really get firing despite that perfect group campaign.

Fiji, meanwhile, were riding high after running Wales desperately close in their opener and then beating Australia for the first time in 69 years, but ended up only scraping through Pool C as runners-up thanks to a pivotal losing bonus point as they were stunned by minnows Portugal in Toulouse.

Simon Raiwalui’s side are a real force to be reckoned with on their day and will hope that they now have England’s number as they contest a first World Cup quarter-final since 2007.

Kick-off today is at 4pm BST, so stay tuned for live updates across the afternoon - including expert analysis from the Evening Standard’s rugby correspondent Nick Purewal at the Stade Velodrome.