By Caroline Mallan BBC News, south-west London

Many South Africans had been confident of victory

The 2001 Census recorded that more than 45,500 people born in South Africa were living in London.

On Saturday, it seemed like many of them - the vast majority decked out in green and gold - were out in Wimbledon, south-west London.

Many of the expats out in the hours leading up to the game were keen to stock up on some flavours from home.

"I'd say this is my busiest day since I opened," said Ilona Chanoch, owner of Snoggy's South African shop.

Biltong, a dried beef delicacy, was a must for fans.

"This is what we in South Africa eat when we watch rugby," said Bridget Malefe as she joined the snaking queue at the year-old Snoggy's shop inside Wimbledon station.

"Without biltong, it isn't rugby."

Fans were keen to experience the flavours of home

At Marimba South African bar, Patrick Durkin, complete with hair dyed green and gold for the occasion, said South Africa were ready to bring home the Webb Ellis Cup again.

Mr Durkin said his country's historic win in 1995, which saw then-President Nelson Mandela present the trophy to team captain Francois Pienaar, had signalled a new beginning for South Africa.

"That was a wonderful day for South Africa. It was very much the start of a new South Africa. We're ready for another one just like it."

Friend Patrick Vilakazi said that, after 12 years of positive change in the country, the entire nation had once again been gripped by World Cup fever.

"Back home this is the biggest day ever."

Braai party

Several South African bars around London were bursting with loyal Springbok supporters.

Riaan Le Roux interrupted a business trip to Germany to join his South African friends in London to watch the match.

Fans said they would enjoy the night whatever the outcome

"I'm supposed to be back in Johannesburg but I thought this would be the best place to watch South Africa beat England," he said.

The South Africans all agreed that, back at home, the day would include a "braai" barbecue - complete with boerewors sausage rolls, cold beer or cider and, of course, biltong.

Sisters Karen and Paula Rutherford said they were cautiously optimistic.

"On paper we are the better team and I'm confident we will win, but you never know until it's over," said Paula.

Jake Baker said the difficult thing would be keeping nerves in check.