Sir Clive Woodward gets World Cup quarter-final predictions badly wrong, England now worried

However, his predictions have not unfolded as expected, as the 2003 World Cup champion has ended up with a 0% accuracy rate in his forecasts.

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Woodward said: "Warren Gatland has done an amazing job to take Wales from where they were in the Six Nations to the quarter-finals. To top a pool at any World Cup is an impressive feat and Wales have done it with 19 points from a possible 20."

He added: "he Pumas hadn’t been at their best in France and although they were much more like themselves against Japan yesterday, Wales won’t be afraid."

Prediction: Wales win

He said: "Ireland are playing on a different level to every other team at this World Cup and the only side close to them is France.

"I can’t see New Zealand beating Ireland if Andy Farrell’s side reproduce the sort of performance they delivered against Scotland. What a job Farrell has done. He is clearly a wonderful coach but has also put a great team around him in Paul O’Connell, Simon Easterby and Mike Catt."

Prediction: Ireland win

He wrote: "I think South Africa are a better team than when they won the last World Cup. They have an amazing side but face a big call at No 10 for the France game.

"If I was coaching the Springboks, I’d continue with Manie Libbok in place of Handre Pollard.

"Libbok kicked poorly against Ireland and had an off day but he has so much to offer in attack. In big World Cup knockout games, the sort of creativity he brings can make a big difference but it still might not be enough to down France."

Prediction:France win

Woodward said: "England have to tighten up defensively. They looked so vulnerable against Samoa and ran out of numbers very quickly. With a bit more luck, Samoa could have scored three further tries.

"I’ve constantly talked about England playing with pace but that doesn’t just apply to attack. It’s defence, too. With a neutral hat on, I hope Fiji don’t get too tactical and try to mirror England’s kicking game. If they run the ball, they’ll cause problems."

Prediction: England win