Springboks Target Historic Win Against All Blacks at Eden Park

The world champion Springboks face a monumental challenge as they prepare to take on the All Blacks at Eden Park in Auckland on September 6, 2023. This match represents not only a fierce rivalry but also a chance for the Springboks to achieve a rare victory on New Zealand soil, a feat they have accomplished only four times throughout their history, despite winning three World Cups.

During a media session, head coach Rassie Erasmus emphasized the significance of the upcoming match. He acknowledged the historical difficulties the Springboks have faced in New Zealand, stating, “World Cups were great that we won it, Lions series was great. But we haven’t been very successful here, over the years. So for us, even though the Eden Park thing, just to win in New Zealand is a massive thing.”

Erasmus carries a degree of optimism, bolstered by his previous experiences against the All Blacks. Under his leadership, the Springboks achieved a thrilling 36-34 win at Sky Stadium in 2018 and managed a 16-all draw in their subsequent encounter the following year. The coach remarked on the challenge of playing the current world number one team in their home territory, acknowledging, “We all know about the record at Eden Park, and I really don’t think that can motivate us more.”

The significance of this rivalry resonates deeply with the players. Lock RG Snyman, who has played alongside Jordie Barrett at Leinster, expressed the honor of competing against New Zealand, saying, “It’s kind of the pinnacle. As a Springbok player, you want to play New Zealand. If you get the opportunity to play New Zealand in New Zealand, it’s even more special.”

Despite the All Blacks’ recent loss to the Pumas in Argentina, Erasmus reminded his team of the formidable reputation that Scott Robertson’s side holds, reflecting on their track record this year. “We have to stay in the reality that it’s a team that only lost once this year, and eight out of ten times they’ve won. So we know they’re right up there.”

A pivotal concern for the Springboks is the fitness of their captain, Siya Kolisi. Erasmus described his status as “touch and go” for the match, but noted that he is expected to be available for the following test in Wellington next weekend.

Erasmus sought to temper the excitement surrounding this weekend’s test, even as his assistant coach, Tony Brown, suggested it may be the most significant match since the World Cup final. “If I say that, Australia will say ‘well, we beat you two weeks ago’,” Erasmus commented. He acknowledged the long-standing rivalry with New Zealand, stating, “there’s a big history. To say it’s the biggest game would be a slap in the face of some of the other teams who have beaten us … but yes, it is a big game.”

As the Springboks approach this crucial fixture, the stakes are high not only for the players but also for the sport itself, as they aim to rewrite the narrative of their history in New Zealand. The match promises to be a captivating encounter as the world’s top two rugby nations collide on September 6.