So can the Springboks retain the Rugby World Cup? | RWC2023 Preview

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In 2019, it was a fairytale. The worst Springbok team ever growing into beloved world beaters. But now, four years later, things are a bit messier. So, how are South Africa evolving their game, what lead to the mixed results last year, and can they level up in time to retain their trophy in Paris this autumn?
If you've enjoyed any of the channel's content, you can also support Squidge Rugby on Patreon by visiting / squidgerugby , so I can break off from my own domestic structure and join the URC

[@MichelleMason-qu9hf]

You're right Squidge. This one wasnt about destiny, these okes were just too stubborn to lose, and they played for something far greater than individual or even team glory. "For South Africa" is now a very special phrase in our country 🇿🇦💚💛

[@clintscott9531]

Squidge… your contribution to the online Rugby Community cannot be measured. Thank you for all the effort and detail that goes into every video. I cannot wait for September and the title defence. Go Bokke!!!

[@benmateinaqara883]

Every game should be treated as a final .

[@user-wv8ow9cx7y]

@@benmateinaqara883 👍

[@JamesPrestonza]

Agreed! I got into Squidge about 4 years ago, when did a video on the big SA v NZ group clash. Been hooked ever since!

[@clairegresswell]

The double entendre refrences to load-shedding are fantastic! Your research, analysis & conclusions are always worth watching twice; which I do 😊

[@sladedonald7830]

duuude the loadshedding references, he a real one.

[@user-xu4rs5hp4n]

watching twice is so real

[@Jerry4Dover]

Honestly, when I'm driving I listen to podcasts on 1.5X. When I'm watching Squidge, I go to 0.75X because I don't want to miss any of the references 😆

[@southafricancoveiro7001]

Just as im about to go to bed,the squidge notification pops up...Life really is like a box of chocolates

[@myshepspud1]

Dude i feel you!

[@themobmagazine]

Never seen a better comment

[@riri1718]

Life is like a box of chocolates, I'm stealing that 😅

[@jameswyatt4443]

People don’t account for how much traveling South African club teams, and the Springboks have to do every year, due to how isolated the country is from the rest of the rugby world. Argentina as well. But in a World Cup everyone is settled in one country, equal travel for everyone, hence South Africa are always incredibly competitive.

[@larvlalo9773]

Fair point ! Sharks battle 60 min vs a great Toulouse in CC (not the tired 2021 Toulouse, nor the 2022 Toulouse vs Leinster being heavily robbed by ref) and been impressive. A full healthy squad will be dangerous...

[@tafatapaleao4588]

… couldnt win the URC at home final .. stop it already with excuses mate. NZ and Aus also travel lmao

[@kiwiyasss8644]

@@tafatapaleao4588 The don't travel as much for Super Rugby

[@jameswyatt4443]

@@tafatapaleao4588 Losing the URC final changes nothing, that’s one game. The point is throughout the whole URC and Champions Cup, no club teams in the world travel more, which means you’re not going to consistently see the best of them as much as other teams. NZ and Australians don’t travel as much and that’s a fact.

[@siyabongamazibuko7368]

You make a very valid point. Furthermore, the two losses against France and Ireland were away games, very tight games they really could have gone either way. I personally don't think Ireland and France have enough to beat us in a World Cup, even France in Fance. YEAH, I SAID WHAT I SAID!😂

[@Bokkex]

think the advantage the Boks and the SH teams have is that the Rugby Championship is only two months before the World Cup. They're going to get battle ready right at the peak time while Ireland France are having to regroup and get back into the swing of things. If the SH teams remain relatively injury free its gonna be interesting.

[@RazorMouth]

That can also be a hindrance if key players get a injured and aren't fit for the RWC. I wouldn't look too much into the timetable tbh.

[@yE6sniping]

I would argue that’s a disadvantage. Why is the RWC always at the end of the southern hemisphere season? It should rotate every World Cup.

[@mollyoko]

@@yE6sniping imagine having a global season.....

[@fredperry523]

I'm sure all teams will be running a mix of A,B & C players so it will be tricky to get an idea of exactly what will happen & which players will feature at the RWC.

[@peterbreen3039]

Or get injured ?

[@richardross-adams2925]

Love the analysis as always Squidge, keep ‘em coming! One thing overlooked regarding SA’s 2022 Autumn Series however, they ran both France and Ireland extremely close who were at the peak of their powers, on home soil, without a recognized goal kicker, leaving numerous missed points out there. Both games had, shall we say dubious decisions, the French TMO magically going offline and Ireland’s winning try was off the back of an illegal kick through the ruck, not called (something the Boks themselves were penalized for earlier in the game). I think they will be relishing another go round and a chance to crush dreams. Going to be a fantastic World Cup and the likes of Aus and England have their best chance in ages considering their favourable draw, meaning the big contenders knock each other out before the business end.

[@dermotquinn]

and 14 men against France...

[@andrieslouw3811]

Yes we can. Yes we did. Rassie in your he-ad in your he-ad he-ad.

[@morris9337]

As a Scot, count out the boks at your peril. I always enjoy an upset but I think Ireland, NZ or SA will take the cup. No matter the outcome, so excited to see the World Cup come to fruition. Love the game, it’s gonna be a belter 🙏

[@paulap142]

SA is going to win the RWC again!

[@willembooyens9391]

​@@paulap142and so we did!

[@phetogomoteane3967]

Squidge, your technical analysis is on another level. I'm blown away by the level of detail and you still manage to deliver with a great sense of humour. Outstanding!!!

[@cobus5841]

We'll stand behind the Boks. Win or lose. It is going to be tremendously tough but I am hopeful. The world underestimates Rassie and our present coaching team. Yes, we have injuries to deal with and yes, we have a difficult pool and game plan issues but our players have the heart and physicality to give it their all. I am secretly just hoping Squidge will stay on form with videos being posted right through the world cup! Go Bokke!!!

[@mazibukomail]

He will, during World Cups youtubers can make as much or much more than an off WC year.

[@chrislenferna4384]

As they say its not who you play, its who you dont. I throughly believe if South Africa avoid France in the quarters they will make the finals and have chance of winning

[@ruthfaller8535]

Who? Like legit who underestimates Rassie and team? He is a fantastic water boy and coach 😊 South Africa (the world camps!) continue to play the ‘no one respects us’ we are such ‘underdogs’ cards. Understand it might be motivating for the team but come on, the reigning champions are not some odds against them all story 😂

[@justRedDevil]

Why do South Africans constantly try to portray themselves as underdogs? SA are one of the favourites to win the WC. Everyone is well aware of how good the coaching and players are. So who's actually underestimating SA? If SA win the world cup again it will be far from a shock.

[@leeofdoom4452]

Noone underestimates the SA coaching team, itss just the world hates Rassie for what hes done to the reputation of the sport.

[@jamesmcclarty-miller7886]

When you order pizza and then Squidge drops a new vid... life happens good sometimes

[@christojooste8137]

Watched this video during... wait for it... LOAD SHEDDING!

[@kgotsomaphike8132]

I'm coming back here to let you know that we retained the Webb Ellis trophy 🔥🔥🔥🔥

[@adrianjacobs4213]

As Bok supporters we will always back our boys to win it all. However, I’ve been concerned with the preparation for our team as well as injuries to key players. The fact that the team is also older with some of the core group from 2019 still there and not really having great competition this last year makes it a tricky situation for the Boks. My opinion is that Ireland and France has peaked too early. The SH go through this every WC cycle because the media narrative is focused on the NH teams. No one is even talking about the All Blacks or as you highlighted whether the Boks can retain. I agree with you, we might not be able to retain but we will make it definitely hard or near impossible for the favourites to take it off us. Should the Boks retain then it will be down to sheer determination and playing with a chip on their shoulders. Knowing our coaching team they are already prepping the team with great boulders on their shoulders 😂

[@shanegilbert6574]

How are you feeling about the boks chances now?

[@bongiwemapoma4630]

We won 🐟😂👊

[@stefancremer4615]

Your comment aged well… 🏆🇿🇦

[@paulartreides9369]

You were right South africa did decide who would win the RWC. Except they decided they would win it themselves ahahaha. You are a great analyst you deserve corporate funding and backing you might even e worth being Wales Video analyst and help them to their first RWC

[@scottwarwick7514]

Yes. Yes we will. Fourth-time winners? First team to win a fourth World Cup? 8-0 split? Yes, that’s us. Thanks. 1995 2007 2019 2023

[@Tremino___ScarXz]

U called it 🎉

[@Eduardo-nr5te]

U said it mate

[@francoisdavel1786]

And so they did. In style.

[@jayduplessis7698]

It is inexcusable that two of the Top 4 teams in the world has NO way of making the World Cup semi finals. The thought of two of New Zealand, France, Ireland or South Africa leaving the competition at the quarter final stage is infuriating. It de-legitimises the competition.

[@UglyKidJoe71]

Absolutely well said my brother. A couple of teams from other groups stroll to the semis. This draw rubbishes the world cup competition. Still, you've gotta beat the best to be world champs, so I am quietly optimistic for the bokke

[@GRB-tj6uj]

Maybe those top teams should've done something about it with all the votes they have in their little cartel also known as the World Rugby Board

[@chinmayhejmadi7902]

Why does the World Cup draw take place so early in the cycle though? What's the reasoning behind it?

[@LiamPilot120]

Sure but what exactly would you do differently? Unless you do the draw the night before the first match kicks off you'll always end up with some highly rated teams at risk of dropping out. And even that is assuming a teams performance prior to the tournament (where the conditions and the intensity are completely different) is a precise indication of their performance in the tournament itself. Any tournament structure has flaws, and that is the price we pay for a fun spectacle every few years.

[@GRB-tj6uj]

@@chinmayhejmadi7902 they've finally changed it for the next cycle so it won't happen again but the reason was to give the organisers enough time to organise and sell tickets, hospitality packages and so on (with other words: money)

[@iBonZai]

We did 🔥💚

[@wot4922]

Can't wait to see our boys play. So proud 💚💛🇿🇦

[@tommatheson2821]

Booooooooo

[@wot4922]

​@@tommatheson2821🤣🤣🤣 big baby.

[@decmurray1096]

Commenting the day after the Boks murdered the AB's, it seems to be clicking at the right time. They look a pretty scary prospect now

[@chrismouton1985]

Thank goodness it wasn't just my imagination. The Springboks were definitely playing different last year. A lot more attacking flair and skill. That's what DW brings to the party, as he plays a lot flatter and can tackle quite well. Quite a talented squad going into the Rugby Championship. I can't wait!

[@hyonimarru]

There's a clip where vincent koch had a passing exchange with someone against australia in Squidge's video. I remember watching this match and realising that something was different as this was not how we play and this could be the start of something new. The game against France, especially the first half, was also the same case.

[@shaungordon5104]

I'm very excited to see how far the Boks have come in the meantime. The fact that they were trying to add these new dimensions to their game, and still pushed the best teams in the world to the edge while essentially just playing practice games, gave me so much faith that we'll keep the world cup this year!

[@user-kj8lq7mo2s]

Sqidge mate they weren't kingmakers they were kingslayers they cleaned up every one they had the hardest path to travel and they got through in the end. In fact they were not kingmakers they were EMPEROR'S.

[@IAM_SALEM]

😂 My country had 4 more years of struggle 🤣 trust me, if you can’t laugh you’d cry about it. These Boks are coming to take it again 🏆 if it’s possible, we’re even hungrier, I can feel it! 🇿🇦

[@ihaveaidsish]

As in All Blacks supporter, will always prefer you guys if we dont. You have a scary team on paper.

[@elijahmohammed2960]

Love love love that you always do a Springboks review, thank you

[@deeps2169]

Hit the notification harder than the EPCR ban is going to hit Jonny Sexton

[@motomoto8383]

Npc

[@magnuspeacock5857]

​@@motomoto8383wot?

[@Karma-qt4ji]

If the EPCR has the balls to do it. Should be banned. If an England player gets red card and 11 weeks ban for calling Barnes a fucking cheat, then the same level needs to apply to Johnny Sexton calling the officials a fucking disgrace.

[@Nieljoyceniel]

@@Karma-qt4jihave a cry mate, it’s his last hoorah and you want a shit ending to it

[@colmivers]

​@Karma-qt4ji ah a disgrace doesn't have the same bite as a cheat which is an accusation of acting in bad faith so should be less than 11 weeks

[@mohauwamorena]

Yep,and we did!🔥🇿🇦🎉🎉

[@notw22]

Brilliant video, my heart says we will win it again but my brain cells say other too many key injuries and uncertainty in boks at the moment guess we will see how they go in the rugby champs

[@kayisetuswa7545]

I really do believe we can win it again

[@louisjwiese5515]

Swys de Bruyn was part of their coaching team initially, as the attacking coach. But he admittedly quit, because he realised that he was being ignored, and that the focus of Erasmus and Nienaber was almost obsessively on defense. Would have been nice if they had that balance though.

[@qhamaclaasen4049]

Where is he now Swys that is?

[@hasbulla1239]

@@qhamaclaasen4049on the supersport panel along with nick mallet and co.

[@Wolf-hh4rv]

Not convinced Nienaber will come up with a better attack which what we desperately need. Let’s get a Kiwi coach in and try something more ambitious

[@matthewvanrensburg3824]

More like he couldn't handle the pressure and had a breakdown. Come now.

[@karabomafa5609]

@@Wolf-hh4rv Swys is just as good at coaching attacking rugby as any Kiwi coach... Remember what he did with a modest Union like the Lions.. The Lions had a good 2-3 year run of dominance in SA and Super Rugby, but unfortunately falling short at the last hurdle

[@mogamatnatheerjacobs329]

Something deep inside me, is telling me South Africa being in such a tough group, and having such a difficult road to the finals or semis, I feel like this rugby championship is going to give us the test and bind this teams need. The green and gold in my blood tells me we will do it again.

[@THEMRblackboy7thst]

boy i sure hope you are right fellow SA fan

[@matthewanne3575]

Holding thumbs

[@koheinrona6994]

naah

[@ivanjohnston3204]

One we get into the quarters the cup is ours

[@kiwiyasss8644]

@@ivanjohnston3204 you mean the semi's?

[@AnalystGus]

HOW can I compete with THIS Squidge. 21 mins of Analysis??

[@cl1nty]

Imagine a flawless springbok world cup. Imagine they absolutely boss every team they play against 🇿🇦 #gobokke

[@FVMJUP]

You just have to love all the little comedic easter eggs in the Squidge rugby videos. I laughed so hard at the load-shedding reference!

[@danieljames3163]

keep up the good work Squidge! Would love to see a video on Scotland's chances on getting out of the group.

[@tshepokgatle5620]

Don't wanna jinx it but I have a sneaky feeling that the Springboks will pull a Man City at the world cup. The world is blushing over France and Ireland form at the moment (Arsenal this past season) but the Boks (Man City), flying under the rader hit ominous form at the right time and their experience of winning the big one will bear fruit while the French and the Irish crumble under pressure. Of course if I'm wrong then I'm wrong😆! Regardless Robbie thank you so much for this. You are arguably the only constructive critic in the world that gives South Africa the respect and decency that little or no one else from the north and south is willing to do. You didn't have to bat for us (From a supposedly sh*thole continent......Hmmph😡) to an extent but you are and as a South African all I can say is thank you

[@Edgycoo]

i think saffa dont make it out of their pool

[@prudeuncle]

​@@Edgycooclearly you have no clue.

[@notenoughstones3873]

@@Edgycooconsidering that Scotland have never beaten South Africa outside of Murrayfield and haven’t beaten them since 2010, I would say it is highly highly unlikely. Unfortunately Scotland, as good as they are, just don’t have the power to match the SA pack. Even in their last game in 2021, SA won with ease and hardly had to move out of second gear and they have improved a lot since then.

[@shintenkai1648]

It aint the continent that's a shithole brudda, africa is dusty diamond, the dust being the corrupt power hungry politicians in almost every country on the continent. If the people wipe that mess away instead of blaming eachother, africa and it's countries would be #1.

[@commentwell3870]

Why is it always that rugby players/fans love football, but it's not the other way around?

[@lilianhaggland2031]

So here we are World Cup Champions 2023...we retained OUR CUP.

[@lforlopez1393]

update: yes they did

[@callumgowar]

You asked, we answered and here we are! Legend Squidge!! Thank you, good Sir!! Always incredible analysis!! Go Bokke!!

[@MartensAD]

Interesting on the changing tactics. I'm surprised you didn't mention the fact that South African teams have been playing in the URC for the last two seasons, which I think has been a step up from Super Rugby and a big boost for the boks, who can now pick well seasoned players from domestic teams as well as the massive contingent playing for European and Japanese teams. Some of the most exciting young players coming through are in URC SA teams, Libbok, Arendse, Moody, Fassi, Roos, Louw. And these URC teams are playing a fast, skillful, attacking game, particularly the Stormers. The depth of their squad may be a factor at the WC.

[@malcolmvanhilten125]

Thanks Squidge for another excellent piece of content. The analysis on the game and tactics was of the very most top draw, the style and wit of the delivery is simply superb. I really think this vid deserves to get you on to a panel of one of the broad casters during the WC. I would love to see your input alongside the usual dribble and cliché's that past time players typically deliver. All power to you sir. PS off to square space to sign up. Been trying to decide a vendor and seeing as they are all pretty simillar, their support of you, buys my support of them.

[@kobuslouw9533]

Jirre, even Squidge knows about load shedding at this point. Thanks for the video!

[@TheBendixSA]

Hahahaha amper myself ge pis toe ek die lees hier tussen al die ander comments. fok 'n bra is DIK vir loadshedding.

[@16sputnik7]

What quality content! The Attenborough of rugby.

[@somelezexd6977]

And we did

[@xabisombilini5440]

Thank you for the quality videos, Squidge!!

[@alexandernoussis1943]

I think the Boks r extremely underrated. This is one of the best South African teams ever

[@peterbreen3039]

Nobody but nobody underestimates the most successful World Cup team.

[@SpotlightShowdown]

Spot on. I like.

[@Narapoia1]

But far from the best coach, hopefully Rassie is acting at the head coach throughout the rwc campaign. Nienaber has shown be isn't world class.

[@alexandernoussis1943]

@@Narapoia1 I think Nienaber is great! He won the B&I Tour with the team not having played a game for almost 2 years!

[@Narapoia1]

@@alexandernoussis1943 Playing some pretty dire rugby along the way though. Lost to Australia more than we beat them in the last 4 years. He's done okay, but no rugby championships, and an average win ratio. He's nothing special.

[@jasoncugs]

Awesome video @squidge! I unliked the video just so i could like it again... Excellent analysis. As South Africans we love having our backs against the wall...having to prove everyone wrong. Win or loose every team we come up against is leaving bruised and battered. If you beat us you deserve to be lift the trophy.

[@mikeherbert5099]

Yes Spring Boks have every chance of winning the world Cup 2023....Im a New Zealander..Teams like Ireland/France/England all have a great chance as well. Other than the All Blacks ..South Africa is my other team ive always followed and on the day Spring Boks are a hard team to beat .Good luck at the 2023 Rugby World Cup ✨...

[@jacqueskirstein9833]

We're sitting in opposite teams, but the same boat. The rivalry (combined with respect we have) with each other is nothing short of special. I hope we meet up with the ABs in the knockout stages, what a clash that could be considering both teams seem to be aligning to hit form at around those stages. I can't wait and am chomping at the bits to see what this world cup has in store for us. Enjoy it, Mike and the other All Black fans, much love from the world of the Springboks.

[@peterbreen3039]

As an English fan, I need to tell you, we have very little hope. Somewhere between Bob hope & No hope. We don’t have a competitive front row, a tight head 2nd row or a large ball carrying 6. Our likely: 9, 10, and 15 will be the slowest spine in the tournament. Teams now know. Don’t kick to Steward, get to run at him and make him turn. Every time teams run at us and turn him, he falls over. France have at least 3 flankers who are faster than our: 9, 10, 12 and 15, let alone backs. Farrell will have again ‘flattered to deceive’ playing for Saracens. But top teams will make him kick away almost every ball. Our defense is shocking. In the last 3 six nations we are the only team from the old five nations with a negative Tries for and against record. It is minus 1. Take away 3 games V Italy and we have conceded 12 more tries than we have scored. Imagine having a defense that bad and kicking away 90% of ball ! Our only hope is that a few injuries might make us stronger. But the likely starting team is: too soft, too small and too slow.

[@mikeherbert5099]

@@peterbreen3039 On there day England can be a threat as well..Wish them well and good luck 🙏🏽.

[@mikeherbert5099]

@@jacqueskirstein9833 Yes be awesome if we go that far..But I wish the All Blacks good luck on there World Cup 2023 tour..As well I wish all teams around the globe good luck 🙏🏽

[@peterbreen3039]

@@mikeherbert5099 in the last 3 six nations England have in total, won 6 and lost 9. They beat bottom team Italy 3 times. So again, in games against the old 5 nations teams, top 11 teams they are L 9 W 3. Things are very very bad. France recently beat them 10 V 53. It was humiliating. No team can lose by that score at home and then win a WC 7 months later.

[@lirmeaney6255]

Am I the only one worried about Australia with Eddie Jones back 😅

[@notw22]

Eddie's bark is worse than his bite

[@jacqloock]

Smart money. Only England in their half, Eddie is best in his first year, and whoever survives the other half will be in tatters.

[@cobus5841]

I do rate Eddie Jones. I am sure Rassie is keeping an eye out for Australia.

[@roryfleming2320]

Eddie is an ok coach. Look at his final months at England. NZL with Schmidt as a part time coach is a problem for any country

[@dusnmatr]

Quad Coopers face with that cadbury crunchy bar yellow jersey scares me

[@Rugby69]

Love the loadshedding jokes

[@ORYXGREEN]

Imagine all the great teams will have to play against the Boks? Never mind a difficult pool for the Boks, it'll be a hard road for everyone playing against the Boks!!! Can't wait to see you there!

[@commentwell3870]

That's just the thing - and everyone is making it out to be a hard Group for the Boks only????

[@clibo1]

Malcolm in the Corner😎

[@vanessacoetzee8634]

I find your analysis brilliant and very insightful. I am seeing rugby with new eyes, literally the story behind the story

[@Avm68CC]

Your insight is just so good Squidge. Glorious content as ever!

[@eoinobrien2379]

That Ireland peaking 3 years into a world cup cycle was done perfectly 👌🤣

[@kurtpunchesthings2411]

From an Irish man yea I know what many think about us this year but I really do believe this team is different from other years it's crazy tho because after 2019 I said that was our last chance to win a world cup ever never thought we would ever have a team as good again Well here we are in 2023 somehow we have improved on that in peak performance call it arrogance if you will but I do not believe there's a team in the world who can beat us If we play up to our max potential and why I say that ? Because while we have gone 11 games undefeated in a row a grandslam wins over the all blacks South Africa Australia We still have not seen the best this team can be of course it's up to us to hit that level when it matters but I'm telling you we can be better and God help the world If we hit that level

[@robertbailey2089]

@@kurtpunchesthings2411 This Ireland team definitely is different. Exceptional squad, depth and style. That loose trio with Jvdf also very scary. Im hoping we beat you early in the pools(South African) but I feel Ireland are reallly flippen strong this year.

[@brianzungu3249]

@@kurtpunchesthings2411 maybe Squidge is right. Ireland should lose to the Boks so that they enter knockout mode for the Scotland decider. They will then be able to gain the momentum from there and replicate Bok 19 success. It's not a question of player ability but mental toughness. That game against Scotland will essentially be a QF. And passing that physical and mental hurdle (I believe) will make up for all the previous Ireland and Leinster chokes. (sorry couldnt help it)

[@Slipperygecko390]

@@kurtpunchesthings2411 Yeah they're fine, they've not peaked, the are steady. They pools aren't so unbalanced as people like to make out either, Scottland are just going to get the short straw barring a massive upset. Ireland are all good.

[@Slipperygecko390]

@@brianzungu3249 The quarter final will be the quarter final.

[@JamesGats286]

The one I’ve been waiting for 😁

[@brandonm8416]

Wow that was a deep technical dive. Very informative. Thank you.

[@dietermeyer3531]

5:19 Haha love the Load Shedding Reference

[@tatendamusesengwa5261]

I love your videos. Honestly they are perfect mix of humour, analysis and knowledge of the nature of the game

[@dalenewton9697]

And woke hypocrisy!

[@NemoNiemand497]

@@dalenewton9697 what are you on about? Doubt you watched the video

[@somanytakennames]

@@dalenewton9697 Aww someone has a different opinion to you boo hoo.

[@dalenewton9697]

@@NemoNiemand497 I'm talking about his jypocrisy on identity politics, gender ideology, covid (Slade, Nowell), Isreal Folao, etc. (colloquially referred to as 'woke' thought)

[@dalenewton9697]

Usually 'wokery' is part of some kind of monetization strategy or other. Could be a bit of an inferiority complex (about his own homosexuality) playing into it as well. Of course, these kinds of doctrines aren't created by social media content creators, and I don't wish to say they are. Ultimately they are ruling-class/establishment serving doctrines imposed top down (little/no public support), and that impetus begins above content creators like this.

[@Benboy1980]

What I like about SA is that even though they were terrible pre-world cup they rose to the occasion and came through for the win. Gotta admire the grit. We need more of that in the UK

[@luke5316]

I like how you breakdown the way to win the boks but it's easier said than done. I can tell you now boks are going to come harder than they ever have before.

[@garethmcrory5481]

Thats what she said

[@kylecoertze9495]

this is next-level analysis! well done squidge!

[@max_31t]

Yes, because the Cheetahs won the Currie Cup last week and when the Cheetahs win the Currie Cup in World Cup years, South Africa win the tournament !!!

[@conniematthee7241]

Keep up the great work mate. Your channel is one of the top 2 rugby related channels I follow and have ever seen. Its between yours and @twocentsrugby. Always very good insights and a thorough breakdown of the tactical side of the beautiful game. Will be watching you guys closely during the upcomming Rugby Championship as well as the Rugby World Cup. 👏👏👏👏

[@jacoetsebeth150]

Whatching this on the eve of the WC final... just makes me love the boks more.

[@willieventer4831]

The "Hype" being made and the high expectations set for the northern hemisphere teams is insane especially this close to the worldcup, odds are, pressure consume those teams when they have a "bad" day and then choke, all because of the ridiculous amount of hype and expectations set from the get go for these teams.

[@greenplasticgun]

While making all these tweaks to their game the Boks almost beat two of the technically best teams in the world, away. Ireland (with a tiny bit of help from some interesting ref calls) and France, playing with 13/14 men for 80% of the game. The game they lost to NZ was hella close and the game they lost to Wales they play a very experimental B side, and almost won. All while missing out on so much rugby because of covid. Since then they've slowly been bumped down the pecking order for winning the 2023 WC to fourth or even fifth favorites, after all the Aus/Eddie buzz, and I think that's exactly what they want. They want underdog status and not to be noticed going into the tourney. Their two biggest hurdles are, Handre Pollard injury and the fact that no one, save NZ, have defended a WC.

[@Nieljoyceniel]

You can’t complain about ref calls when in that exact game kolbe should’ve got a red, pstd a yellow, kolisi a yellow for a neck roll which was in the build up for the 2nd try.

[@Appels101]

@@Nieljoyceniel Love how the irish come handbagging the comments if there is so much of a mention of "interesting ref calls". A bit jumpy aren't you?

[@Nieljoyceniel]

@@Appels101 jumpy? Your lot run their mouth about refs yet they get a fair amount of calls

[@Appels101]

@@Nieljoyceniel Yeah, for the “best team in the world” you supporters are real jumpy. Have some confidence in your 1st ranked team. I think you guys know, on a neutral ground, many of those wins last year would probably have gone the other way. Where’s the World Cup being played?

[@greenplasticgun]

@@Nieljoyceniel yeah, if you’d take a moment you’d notice my comment has virtually nothing to do with complaining about ref calls but is more about where the Boks find themselves in their World Cup preparations. So take a moment, sit down before you hurt yourself and think about your replies for at least 2 minutes before throwing Hail Mary Springbok talking points against the wall like an ape throws feces.

[@abburobinson]

Bokke will make us proud I just know they will

[@okedom]

awesome so good. looking forward to the rest of the teams

[@calvyn456]

I would love to see a video about SA’s backline decisions into the RWC. Libbok vs Pollard vs Willemse, and how each would fit into this new attack scheme

[@michaelrossouw3469]

Really enjoy your videos! When you going to make one on Australia possibly having the easiest route to the final along with the spice of personal revenge for Eddie Jones in knocking England out of the world cup a mere months after they sacked him? (Possibly as early as Quarter finals...)

[@leeofdoom4452]

Austraalias route will match SA's 2019. NZ the only top experienced team they met and lost to

[@NemoNiemand497]

@@leeofdoom4452 so Wales and England were crap then! Okay, maybe England was crap. They could hardly beat the All Blacks

[@leeofdoom4452]

@@NemoNiemand497 Wales were missing 10 first team players, and England had come off the back of beating France, then aus then NZ in 15 days... they were exhausted after 20 mins

[@trimad6128]

Hahahahahaha!Australia can’t buy a win against us mate!I think we’ve won 13 out of the last 14 tests🤷‍♂️

[@KickingTeeRugby]

@@leeofdoom4452didn’t play France , game was cancelled

[@chris5240]

Hey Squidge, do you still love Rassie? Big fan of you, good luck for the hard work during the Rugby World Cup!

[@franskrause4658]

Wow!! Great video. Really insightful! Thanks

[@lwandlegaga5421]

Your loadshedding shade😂 i cant!

[@siyabongamlangeni3742]

yes they can....and have

[@joelchihota4994]

if the Boks bring back their Defense Master Class they might win ot all

[@MickJaggerr1]

The only channel where I watch the full ad … “can use it on your desktop in case of loadshedding” brilliant !

[@petes9524]

Squidge, the Boks have skill, power and great depth, leadership and balls, but crucially, it's all about the one thing that unites and fires SAFFA s, gees

[@ThymeTwister]

Group B is insane- whoever comes out of it has a very very good shot at winning the whole thing

[@powerbite92]

Very good chance of finding all their squad in the medical bay before their quarter final even kicks off

[@fomofud9479]

​@@powerbite92true that's why there is talk of fielding "B" teams for the Ireland vs Boks game.

[@mauroger86]

More like, whoever wins, will go into another shit game against either the ABs or France. Good luck with that.

[@powerbite92]

@mauroger86 now we understand what the group of death was about. it was about weakening whoever France will play in a quarter final.

[@joedennehy386]

One of 2 of the top 5 ranked teams in the world that emerges from the !/4 finals will win for sure. Which team will that be? South Africa, New Zealand, France, Ireland or Scotland

[@p_cassso]

mentioned Namibia... LIKE!

[@thinusjansevanrensburg2090]

Just love your energy and your unique analysis

[@nicholasyogatiger]

I would love to see your analysis of the Bok All Black game on Friday at Twickenham. You're my favourite rugby analyst. Keep going. Looking forward to an awesome World Cup.

[@Wide-eye]

End of last year SA first softened up Italy then implemented their expansive game scoring 63 points. That should make any team nervous in the W Cup. Their squad is terrifying and looks stronger than in 2019 with more experience and same coaches. Second best v Italy was Ireland with 34 points - quite a difference. Do not poke the big bears NZ and SA. They are coming to take you away AHAAAAA !!!

[@THEMRblackboy7thst]

i drink to that

[@Bolognabeef]

And today Italy u20 defeated SA u20, maybe the tide is turning

[@THEMRblackboy7thst]

@@Bolognabeef thanks for the spoil. Was going to whatch that game now

[@prudeuncle]

​@@Bolognabeef2 completely different teams so your point is irrelevant.

[@cpkemp5709]

They definitely can....😜

[@jeanpierredupreez1877]

Cant wait for your video on the last Springbok Nz game

[@paulap142]

Great match Bokke,we are proud of you!!!

[@randomlyfactual1943]

Who's here after SA demolishing NZ?

[@athenkosimlindazwe]

We made it to the semi finals

[@randomlyfactual1943]

@@athenkosimlindazwe in literally one of the most unbelievably gut wrenching, edge of your seat atomic slugfests I have ever seen. It was an all-time classic

[@athenkosimlindazwe]

That's how a quarter final should be haha

[@fazertace6837]

Yes. And they will. Massive strength in depth. Scary amount of elite level talent.

[@jayunplugged71]

Sheer class as always... best in the biz from the Squidemeister #GOBOKKE

[@apviljoen2]

"Even with bloody Loadshedding" - You bloody legend Squidge! :)

[@leonrobinson2053]

This was pretty amazing analysis to be fair. Got right down to the nuts and bolts of it. SA have the pedigree to win the world cup, the issue for teams is dodging red cards

[@jksinorbit]

We had no weak spots in 2019 beyond the lack of flyhalf depth. This time it's different there's a few weak links. Orie and Dweba not good enough, kolisi and Am under an injury cloud and then there is the adaptation to a new style of play which has not set in yet. Oh and an exhaustive trip through the group stage. We have the cattle, but the paddock is suited to horses.

[@chrisnaude2929]

Lame! Orie was in 3 successive SR finals with the Lions and 2 URC finals with the Stormers. This is no coincidence.

[@jksinorbit]

@@chrisnaude2929 yeah there's 15 guys in a team... however it's plain to see that he is not Springbok lock material YET. Bok locks over the years have set one hell of a benchmark, let's hope he gets there.

[@chrisnaude2929]

@@jksinorbit If there's 15, why are you targeting one guy? Tell us the real reason. You haven't interacted with my argument by the way.

[@jksinorbit]

@@chrisnaude2929 Chris pay attention. I targeted 2 guys Orie and Dweba and by the way you can add Jesse Kriel to that list and yes I already countered your argument... just because he has been in winning teams doesn't mean he is the reason behind the win there's a whole bunch of other guys carrying him. That's not to say he isn't a good lock capable of playing at a high level...he's just isn't as good as we need at the very highest level.

[@chrisnaude2929]

@@jksinorbit Look my friend, you clearly have an agenda. It's as clear as day. The fact of the matter is that winners abound in the Springbok setup and Orie is not out of place because, guess what, he was an integral part of that Successful Lions team and now a very good Stormers setup. World cup winning coaches can see it too. The fact that you've added Jesse is also an indication of your complete lack of actual knowledge about where these players are currently. Jesse has had a great season and filled in very well end of year 2022, so there's really no grounds for your nunsensical assessment.

[@Ccabbage1977]

I feel they are behind the curve in terms of gameplan evolution, especially in defence where they concede a lot of points and penalties at the ruck.

[@lenrock12022001]

well this video is aging well. we are in the finals it seems. LETS GO BOKKE!

[@albertvanlingen7590]

With Rassie there the Boks will probably do it again.

[@bigmoz9900]

mate they are 1 frm 4 against the worst wallabies since the 70s they dont stand a chance

[@jacqueskirstein9833]

@@bigmoz9900 I wouldn't be so sure, but it seems you are. Let's turn this into something fun (the equivalent of putting your money where your mouth is): what are you willing to do if the Springboks retain the William Webb Ellis this year?

[@bigmoz9900]

@@jacqueskirstein9833 why shouldnt I be sure that a boks side thats lost 3/4 against a trash team from a non rugby country wont win the world cup

[@jacqueskirstein9833]

@@bigmoz9900 What is it that makes you avoid my initial question?

[@bigmoz9900]

@@jacqueskirstein9833 I tried to give you my wager but youtube keeps deleting it. I will put down a puppy with my bare hands. if the boks dont win, and they wont bc they struggle to even beat a very shit wallabies team, you must do the same.

[@RonaldBartels]

ABs beat by a record margin by the Boks.

[@wihanjansevanrensburg436]

That loadshedding comment in the square space ad! Very smooth.

[@williambotha5864]

'...even with loadshedding!' Classic once again, classic.

[@johnnymotshidi]

I searched so very carefully for this comment. I thought that I'd lost my mind or was the only one that heard it! HAHAHAHAHAHA

[@Amandla-Awethu]

I’m somewhat worried about the flyhalf channel. Pollard has been off form or injured since the Lions tour, and Libbock/Willemse have not settled into that role yet. One of those three need to shine at flyhalf if we are to have a chance. I am very concerned that our side of the pool is just a bridge too far. Beating Ireland, Scotland then France/NZ just to make semis is really tough. But if any team currently has the depth to pull it off, I think we may.

[@Flam3ster]

Squidge Rugby is the Antoine Dupont of KZbin Rugby channels

[@033MMAFiend]

This video was absolutely amazing. Keep up the great work

[@daviddempster8717]

Mchunu🇿🇦, glad you mentioned him..watch that space.