Springboks Seek Historic Win Against All Blacks at Eden Park

The Springboks face a significant challenge as they prepare to take on the All Blacks at Eden Park on September 6, 2024. This highly anticipated match kicks off at 19:05 local time and marks another crucial chapter in the fierce rivalry between the two rugby powerhouses. Despite their status as world champions, the Springboks acknowledge the historical difficulties they have faced in New Zealand.

Historical Context and Current Form

Coach Rassie Erasmus is acutely aware of the Springboks’ record, having won only four tests on New Zealand soil throughout their professional era. He emphasized the importance of this match during the team’s media session in Auckland, stating, “World Cups were great that we won, and the Lions series was also great. But we haven’t been very successful here over the years.” For Erasmus, winning in New Zealand is a monumental task, one that goes beyond just the iconic venue of Eden Park.

Reflecting on past encounters, Erasmus can draw on his experience from 2018 when he led the Springboks to a 36-34 victory against the All Blacks at Sky Stadium. The following year, the teams played to a 16-all draw in their final match before the World Cup. This history provides some comfort, but as Erasmus noted, the current challenge is formidable. “For us to play New Zealand in New Zealand, number one and two in the world currently, it’s really something else to motivate you,” he said.

Significance of the Match

Lock RG Snyman, who recently played alongside Jordie Barrett at Leinster, expressed the significance of this matchup. “It’s kind of the pinnacle,” he said. “As a Springbok player, you want to play New Zealand. Playing them in New Zealand makes it even more special, regardless of the location.” The emotional weight of this match is palpable among the players, who recognize the legacy associated with facing the All Blacks.

Despite the All Blacks’ recent defeat to the Pumas in Argentina, Erasmus reminded his team to remain grounded. “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,” he commented, acknowledging the strength of the All Blacks.

In terms of team fitness, the Springboks are closely monitoring the status of their captain, Siya Kolisi. Erasmus described Kolisi’s condition as “touch and go,” indicating a potential absence for this weekend’s test. However, he reassured that Kolisi would likely be available for the following match in Wellington.

Erasmus also addressed the remarks made by his assistant coach, Tony Brown, who claimed this match is the biggest since the World Cup final. “If I say that, Australia will say, ‘well, we beat you two weeks ago’,” he quipped, highlighting the competitive nature of international rugby. He acknowledged the rich history of rivalry with New Zealand but emphasized the importance of not undermining other teams that have also had successes against the Springboks.

As the Springboks prepare for this critical encounter, the atmosphere is charged with anticipation. The stakes are high, and both teams are eager to assert their dominance on the field. Fans will be watching closely as the world champions strive for a rare victory in New Zealand, a feat that would echo through the annals of rugby history.