South Africa's rugby coach, Scott Robertson, predicts a return to their fundamental playing style following their defeat.
The All Blacks and South Africa's Springboks are gearing up for their second Test in Buenos Aires, each with a unique approach in mind.
New Zealand's coach Scott Robertson is aiming to address the team's recent backline inefficiencies and unlock a more fluid and ambitious attacking style, while relying on their set-piece strengths. Despite struggles with consistency, particularly in moving the ball wide, the All Blacks aim to blend physicality, clinical execution, and rugby IQ for a more cohesive performance.
On the other hand, South Africa's Springboks, coming off a recent loss to Australia, are taking a settled and experienced squad to New Zealand. Coach Rassie Erasmus is emphasizing continuity and building momentum. The Boks have all key players medically cleared and are aware of the massive challenge posed by playing the All Blacks at home, historically a tough environment. They are focused on drafting lessons from their Australia loss and sticking to a tried-and-tested lineup to maintain competitiveness.
Injury concerns for the All Blacks include lock Patrick Tuipulotu, who will need surgery and is expected to need six weeks to recover from a facial fracture. Josh Lord is a potential replacement at lock, while Timoci Tavatavanawai is a midfield option as cover for any injuries. Centre Anton Lienert-Brown is out of the second match against Argentina after failing concussion protocols.
Rieko Ioane's move to the wing and Billy Proctor's promotion to starting number 13 for the All Blacks are under scrutiny following their performance in the last match. Neither Ioane nor Proctor dominated their positions, leading to questions about their form and suitability for these roles.
South Africa's Rugby Championship defense is on shaky ground after their loss to Australia. Their recent struggles have led them to focus on learning and consistency, rather than taking risks with a more expansive game style, as suggested by coach Jacques Nienaber.
In positive news for the All Blacks, Wallace Sititi and Tamaiti Williams should be available for the second Test in Buenos Aires after missing the Cordoba opener and the entire France series due to leg injuries.
As both teams prepare for the upcoming Test, the focus is on sharpened attacking cohesion for the All Blacks and squad consistency for the Springboks. The outcome of this match could significantly impact the remainder of the Rugby Championship.
Read also:
- Weekly happenings in the German Federal Parliament (Bundestag)
- Southwest region's most popular posts, accompanied by an inquiry:
- Discussion between Putin and Trump in Alaska could potentially overshadow Ukraine's concerns
- Massive 8.8 earthquake hits off the coast of Russia's Kamchatka Peninsula, prompting Japan to issue a tsunami alert.
