South Africa v Ireland preview!

[@GoldenbanjoDJ]

I've never anticipated a game more than this

[@steyndewet1191]

Same here man!

[@hammy9019]

Facts

[@dermotcoyne3752]

6 nations decider. 3rd test in New zealand..

[@kierontreas5971]

Yes sir 🇿🇦

[@mac2654]

Really? What about Ireland All Blacks games or against England and France. Some fairly massive ones over the years.

[@MitchellCryer]

Really enjoy Andrew as a pundit. Level headed and logical. Not condescending of the Boks but also not underselling the Irish. Hopefully a respect can be found in opposition the same way NZ and SA respect the rivalry. Hopefully the beginning of a great dual. Keen for the weekend. May the best side win. 🇿🇦

[@jimmyobrien8738]

Bokke will edge this but hopefully we can at least get a bonus point

[@helenaville5939]

I thought the three of them made excellent points. Good to see Andrew growing into the role of pundit. He was a bit shaky but now finding his feet.

[@johnmc3862]

@@jimmyobrien8738They won’t mate. Ireland are the fittest and the most tactically aware team on the planet. Ireland will win it.

[@jimmyobrien8738]

@@johnmc3862 I do believe it will be tight but bokke will likely be mentally more adapt but that doesn't guarantee a win for them

[@eme1468]

@@jimmyobrien8738go to bed, Ireland have and will out smart South Africa In this game,Ireland will probably lose in the final but not till then

[@assassin8or]

Everyone is talking about Springboks strength, but greatly overlooking the absolute speed that squad has. Kolbe, Arendse, Faf, Reinach, De Allende, Willemse are all IMMENSELY fast

[@prinzo.worldwide]

i agree

[@Outliertraining]

Well said I think this was the genius of the 7:1 announcement 😂 you got to love Russie and Jacque the best strategist in the game… I predict a walk away victory 15 points up.

[@Driver2616]

@@Outliertraining : No I don’t think Ireland will win by that much. Perhaps yes by five or six points, but not as much as fifteen…

[@pran8145]

@@Driver2616 good one 😂

[@nelsonbenjamin4754]

​@@Driver2616think again,don't underestimate the Boks

[@mikeyjslater]

Honestly so excited for this game. Rassie really knows how to add some serious spice to this competition. Let’s go Bokke 🇿🇦

[@johannmalan2994]

Win or loose, going to be one of te most brutal pool games in world cup history.

[@mikecl8803]

Well I personally can't wait for this game, Im a springbok supporter🇿🇦 through and through, but a win is not guaranteed, this Irish team is the best I've ever seen and they will match us in all departments, the winner will be determined by which team has the mental toughness. But bring on the weekend, I can't wait. Good luck to both teams and hope there are no injuries for both teams.

[@Joe-ns4cg]

This Irish team is overhyped, they will fall as the English in 2019

[@EclecticSceptic]

@@Joe-ns4cg Ireland have won 27 out of the last 29 matches they've played, and won the last straight 15. How is that overhyped?

[@Joe-ns4cg]

Against poor quality teams, the French are overhyped as well, English are lost after they were DESTROYED in 2019 as I also predicted, rest of the teams are lost since 2016 up there. My point is this, if Ireland did Romania the favour of conceding a try in the 2nd minute, how fast are the Boks gonna get in their pants? Irish gonna get smashed, their last win over the Boks was against an experimental team, and despite their 27/29 matches won they are only 0.15% ahead on the world rankings? Overhyped just like the English in 2019 😂😂@@EclecticSceptic Gon get spanked

[@RD-sp5us]

​@Joe-ns4cg you have no basis for saying that. Of course they are beatable but if you've watched any Irish games over the last 18mths or so, you would know how ridiculous that statement is. They are no 1 in the world because they have been consistently better than anyone else, which means I'd be really surprised if they're playing poorly. That is not what they do. SA will have to beat them

[@Joe-ns4cg]

Bro SA lost one game thus whole year in Auckland against a very good performing All Blacks side. The history of Ireland choking before or at Quarter finals are laughable. Also, well done to Ireland on conceeding a try to Romania, in just TWO minutes! Well done Ireland, the world's best. Springboks have better defense, bigger and stronger players, other teams are at their mercy really because at their best they cannot be beaten by a northern hemisphere team. Those teams are too soft, the only fair competition to the Springboks is a quality All Blacks side.@@RD-sp5us It's been that way consistently for the past 40 years. Ireland going on one good streak does not mean they will now take the world cup, not even ever having reached the semis 😂😂😁😁😁😁 Laughable, they will choke

[@gizmoza]

What an awesome accent! As a South African, I can listen to these 4 all day! Not to mention Irelands call! What an anthem! We all win as supporters on game day!

[@morneviljoen4789]

Joe is one of the best hosts of pundits in the WC. Well done. Looking forward to Saturday's game.

[@johnmc3862]

He is? He’s a presenter who thinks he’s a pundit. Leave to the guests to tell us. What is his professional sports playing experience, nothing!! Never mind his ‘Guinness books of records’ length questions.

[@cid1433]

Well done Joe

[@waterbergtilapia]

This game is like wait for Christmas as a child!!

[@fergaldownes8810]

World Ranked No.1 against World Cup Champions. It doesn't get any better than this. C'mon Ireland 💚

[@Joe-ns4cg]

Ranked #1 by 0.15% difference and with 9 more games played than SA against poor quality teams, Overhyped and due for a spanking just as with the English in 2019.

[@sibzism]

​@Joe-ns4cg 🤣 calm down...

[@Joe-ns4cg]

Nah mate, Bokke ftw, the nation works far too hard to produce quality players to lose to the Irish 👍 more quality players and all locally grown unlike the Irish and some other international teams@@sibzism

[@sibzism]

@@Joe-ns4cg 🤣🤣 I love the confidence oke! 🇿🇦🇿🇦

[@SmcdMcd-d2k]

@@Joe-ns4cgdid you go to drama school Joe ?

[@josephsweeney4219]

Everyone is overthinking this 7-1 split (I expect that the Irish coaches and team are not). 7-1 only means two more forwards with fresh legs at minute 50. It's a marginal advantage for South Africa; an advantage that could win the match for them, but not one that really changes Ireland's preparation or game plan. Ireland needs to play the game that has won them the last 15 matches. They are a mature, emotionally sound group. They've weathered similar challenges in matches against France, NZ, SA, etc. It's going to be a great match.

[@JohnWick-nm6vo]

in a game of small margins thats how you win

[@Titanium351]

Small margins and Boks poor kicking, they better have sorted their kicking out

[@altaafkader9675]

Buddy, after 7 weeks of rugby if you have a team that has forwards who are twice as fresh as whoever you face in the final, it's a huge advantage. This may be a final for Ireland, but the boks are looking at the bigger picture and the tournament as a whole

[@jos106jos]

😂

[@dn822]

If it is a marginal advantage why then not just do a 7 - 1 split aswell? It's a risk we are willing to take. It could go wrong

[@mauritspretorius3403]

As much as we all hype this game up there is still room for both teams to go from the pool to the knock-out phase. Its in the knock-out phase where the stakes really get high. Whether any of these two teams will play either France or the ABs, it is going to be tough and there will be no room then for any mistakes or experiments. I hope this goes down as a spectacular game without injuries to any of the teams so that they will be ready for what awaits them then. Supporting SA all the way. Go Bokke!!

[@Gr8SkyLizard]

I'm a Bok fan and can't shake the feeling that this could be a draw. Regardless of the outcome it should be mighty close. Go Boks

[@anda2736]

Same feeling mate

[@oisinfitzgerald5401]

Think it could be. Have a feeling drop goals will make a comeback for it too

[@Straightdeal]

I think we have lost the opportunity to "supercharge" the Bok backline by not choosing Esterhuizen/Moodie as centre pair and the brilliant Grant Williams at scrumhalf, or at least on the bench. I hope they do it, but the Irish will try and put the Boks on the back foot. They will disrupt the Bok pattern and I see them taking the game by a small margin.

[@khanpaniora5346]

extra time

[@hvr1874]

@@khanpaniora5346 no extra time in pool games

[@TaydoS]

I feel Ireland should view the 7-1 split as a sign of respect for the quality they have. Rassie and Jacque still trying a few things before the knockout games and 7-1 is one of them. It will be a cracking game.🔥🇿🇦

[@JohnWick-nm6vo]

🤣🤣🤣no its not its the opposite....

[@TaydoS]

@@JohnWick-nm6vo It is 😂😂 Remember they tried against the ABs how were the form team at the time.

[@shortMario]

The 7 - 1 is a way to ingeneur a pathway to put defensive presure on the 9 ,10 channel .. This combined with DELENGE boring in on Johnie on attack If I was Saxton I would start stretching its going to be a long hard night on he field for him.

[@JohnWick-nm6vo]

They announcing to IRE we gonna bully you no respect there. @@TaydoS

[@Leon-en9il]

It’s more forward thinking . It’s a look into the future of rugby . Multi positional players

[@bernieob9577]

Ireland, you can take the game 100% ,come on Ireland 🇮🇪

[@georgekoen7414]

I am a Bok fan, but your observations are spot on. I reckon if IRE are able to weather the up front battle, they have the edge. IRE need to bring their ball movement speed, and if not, they may not succeed. This will be a formidable task given the Boks depth. (A depth that is probably the best in the WC). SA need to bring an A+ in this one. Failing that, I see an Irish victory. Many say, 'May the best team win'. NAH! 😁GO BOKKE!

[@SelwynReddy]

Whoever imposes their gameplan will win..7-1split is clear..boks are coming through Ireland front door..good luck to Ireland for believing they can stop the boks..

[@basildavidson4597]

Interesting that while they talked about the 7-1 bench and the physicality that brings to the game, they did not explore how the Springboks closed down the Scottish attack or that the bench will bring on three excellent poachers to assist in closing the game.

[@RD-sp5us]

Or KLA strike rate. Cheslin Kolbe as a threat. Boks is more than just the forwards

[@Edgycoo]

I think ireland need to play two halves. Meet the saffa forwards head on then at half time when your fresh backs come one, play expansive vs their more tired backs.

[@draxiedru]

Completely agree. It’s not the physicality of the bench so much as the skill set they bring to the end of the game. Two loosies who create turnover ball from tired rucks and one line out poacher to disrupt Ireland set piece. It’s cool that pundits and other sides just think the 7-1 split is solely for brute force.

[@warrenafrica9994]

Arendse is going to be the difference.

[@AE-jk6er]

Listen as a SA supporter Ireland is a great team! This is going to be a great one! Who ever plays Ireland in quarter finals good luck! Ireland is on fire Kicks is a warry for SA and Sexton is world class Ireland's forwards is the only forwards that can come close to our physical dominance! Great game ahead may the best team win!

[@stiofain88]

Respect👍🇮🇪🤝🇿🇦

[@IcarianX]

Assuming SA and Ireland progress from Pool B, NZ and France from Pool A... It doesn't matter who plays who really does it? Some Ireland fans would like NZ, but they're all brutally tough opponents. You can't really say Ireland, France, SA or NZ are really better than each other. It just comes down to their prep and how they execute on the day

[@jimmyobrien8738]

​@@IcarianXthe Italians might I say might put it up to the all blacks. Upsets do occur

[@Chess323]

@@jimmyobrien8738 and so do scotland

[@jimmyobrien8738]

@@Chess323 of course

[@LR-vu8gy]

Looking FORWARD to this game...

[@davidlee5580]

Hope Ireland won't be sent PACKing

[@dn822]

Hope Ireland don't win with a FORWARD pass again

[@markmagic4784]

It is a mark of respect for the Irish team that the Springboks have gone 7-1 on the bench! Every team plays to their strength and their own ideas.

[@BrendanGuildea]

I agree. It’s like saying “ we have no other way of beating you than to try blunt force” Gonna be epic!

[@debeerpaul]

I love the Irish pundits. Reminds me of a 70s talkshow.

[@ChrisKirby-l2s]

I think there is too much focus on the boks intent to ‘bully’ the Irish with the 7:1 split. Yes, that’s probably part of their logic but I think most are overlooking the fact that the Bok bench has three fetchers and arguably our most mobile forwards on it(except for Trevor). I think the intent is to try and slow down the irish play at the breakdown in the second half as much as possible and run the ball. It more of an endurance decision than a power based one.

[@craigweideman6194]

Agreed. Secures better quality ball for backs to play

[@markwinter7511]

I agree with you 100%. All the pundits saying its a call to physical war I think are missing the point

[@stephanusvanderwalt5226]

If the boks had a kicker,we would have won both games Dec. Against the Irish and French.

[@jacqloock]

Coulda woulda shoulda. Kon, moes, sou.

[@bernieone1]

Sure thing... if my auntie had balls, she'd be my...

[@lizzyhanahoe4197]

IF. …………..if wishes were fishes the sea would be full

[@paulcostello1807]

True

[@paulcostello1807]

@@lizzyhanahoe4197 🤣🤣that's new to me

[@wot4922]

Wow. I'm touched. I've never heard so much concern for our Boks and what happens should our backs get injured🙄💚💛🇿🇦

[@ayandaveli2882]

trust me They're more worried about our welfare than we are

[@sibzism]

😂

[@wiseone1013]

SA leads Ireland 18 to 8 wins in test rugby. Although this is the number 1 ranked side in the world with 15 consecutive wins, they are no match for the Springboks in my honest opinion. The bookies says SA 1.72 vs IRE 2.25 with a 2 point spread to SA. This is delusional hopeful thinking. Ireland should be more 3.0 with a 7 or 8 point spread against them. This Bok team is a class above the rest, be honest.

[@josephsweeney4219]

No doubt that South Africa are excellent and one of the favorites (with Ireland and France). Ireland play excellent rugby as well. There's a reason why they've won the last 15 matches, including a test series in NZ and the last match between Ireland and South Africa (last two actually). It's going to be an excellent match.

[@deanflynn3745]

Did pretty well last time we played sa 🙄🙄

[@wiseone1013]

@@josephsweeney4219 While it is a very strong Springbok side, it is probably the strongest Ireland side ever. The recent record favours Ireland also. I agree, it is going to be an excellent match.

[@paulnash5500]

Dream on 😂

[@padraigocobthaigh1770]

Ireland will win this game by 10 or 15 points. Boks are full of hype and mind games with their 7/1 crap. What about early injuries that fucks up their plans. Then there's the number 10,beyond useless. Come back here Saturday night for the ,I Told You So.

[@BhengzIn80days]

This game is going to go down to the breakdown. SA have Kwagga, Deon Fourie and van Staden who are all brilliant at playing towards the ball. Those 3 will be huge when they come on. Kitshoff & Kolisi are also very effective in that area when need to be. The Boks recognise Irelands superb ability to go through multiple phases with ball in hand at a high tempo, leading to disjointed defensive lines so they have to cut of that air supply with their rush defence & aim to spoil Irelands ball on the ground. That’s the real talking point, the 7-1 split is just hype cos it’s rarely been done and also how the last time it was used New Zealand were demolished. We’re all in for an excellent game of footy. Undoubtedly and deservedly 2 of the best sides right now.

[@SNOK1986]

This reminds me of the New Zealand England game in the last world cup. Arguably the best 2 sides back then fighting it out. Going to be a great game. They did forget to mention, Ireland will be under pressure, they still need to play Scotland. I am sure that will add to the pressure going into this game.

[@SMacCuUladh]

two week break until the scotland game though

[@MrBreakdownBoy]

Lol, England beat NZ and South Africa walloped England...how were England and NZ the two best teams again?

[@john-louiswepener2230]

Which is exactly why they are using as many forwards as possible. Less game time in this game with the same impact. Thinking long term not short term

[@paulcostello1807]

@@john-louiswepener2230 they use them because they can they have them we are a bit shallow in the front row department. It's fascinating. Marx is a huge loss he is a turnover machine

[@john-louiswepener2230]

@@paulcostello1807 no doubt, Marx is one of the best in the world and almost irreplaceable however Deon Fourie is arguably a better turnover machine. He is quicker more agile and always been underated.

[@almac9865]

Incoming south africans absolutely seething and commenting on an Irish television clip about Irish pundits having the cheek to say Ireland have a chance 🎉🎉

[@MariaHeinrich-t9j]

You do know that the algorithms push these to south Africa right? They're not searching for this to find you

[@skageet]

Lol, you do realise hundreds of Irish fans are doing the same on South African sites. It's all the fun of a big game. Gets it a bit more spicy! There will be beers after the game no matter what happens :)

[@Titanium351]

You're just trying to bait for some responses, the Irish can think and feel whatever they want.... It doesn't mean they're right though. Boks gonna rush you then crush you.

[@philipmeiring3582]

As a Saffa, this is going to be the toughest game for us the year. Would be foolish to write this Irish team off.

[@topazgoose]

​@@Titanium351you're in for a nasty surprise when Ireland takes it by 15+

[@vincentralph2680]

The Bokke have successfully climbed into the Irish heads

[@christiaansmit1380]

They call this the Rassie effect.

[@loadsbutty]

You're over reacting A 6 / 2 spread largely negates the hyped 7 / 1 split S.A. are better than us but 7/1 split isnt likely to be the factor

[@lizzyhanahoe4197]

On the contrary, SA going for 7.1 split shows fear.

[@jimmyobrien8738]

We fear bokke so what, you are a great team so the fear is reasonable

[@elduderino3236]

If Kriel goes down, Willemse comes to centre with Kolbe shifting to fullback.

[@alistairclifton1286]

Arendse has experience there as well. Faf can play 9 and 10, Libbok 10 and 15, De Allende 12 and 13, Kolbe 9, 11,14 and 15, Willemse 10,12,13,15, Reniach 9 and 11,14...at a push we can put Kwagga in the backs. We covered and we are covered well.

[@iannufcd1274]

It's crazy to think that this is just a group game, An Irish springbok final would be electric

[@JohnHirsch88]

Rewatched the Autumn highlights. We were getting turned over before nearly all our points opportunities. If they've fixed their discipline we're flootered

[@redpilled9595]

South Africa played poorly and almost won

[@Cool-Air-Kani]

The great thing about the match is both IRELAND AND SOUTH AFRICA still go thru to the quarter finals🤷 its a test match.

[@JFP1988]

No they don't. Ireland have yet to play Scotland, South Africa have a few matches left as well.

[@rodwellchigome7567]

No they don't. Who wins goes through. Who loses will have to match or better Scotland's results against the other teams in the groups. If Ireland lose, Scotland will have to smash Romania, and perhaps Tonga, and their match will essentially become a QF before the QFs @@JFP1988

[@fionnmoules7620]

@@JFP1988Scotland are overhyped Ireland will beat them comfortably like South Africa

[@DonovanBanks]

These guys are by far the best opposition pundits I've watched. They are balanced and confident, kind of like how I see the Irish team. Lets hope no injuries or silly cards will ruin what is fixing to be a great game. No matter the result for either team, we still have tough QF to come on both sides. I wouldn't be surprised at an IREvSA final either.

[@markisaacs5277]

I like the fact that the boks game plan makes everyone talk..plus the way the players buy into it is so amazing

[@4evaavfc]

Results can change from week-to-week. Before South Africa beat the ABs three weeks ago, the ABs thrashed South Africa a couple of weeks previously.

[@RikiLouw69]

Cute, they think there is chaos. These guys are always funny.🤣

[@SuckMyApathy]

"Suid Afrika hulle weet nie wat ons weet nie" Dricus du Plessis se woorde is spot on hier

[@francoisleroux3165]

South Africans are shaped by chaos in every day of their lives. We make a plan and get things done around the challenges, always have.

[@colinvandermerwe2953]

Ireland is No 1 in the world so they are outright favourites doesn’t matter what the bench consists of. The must play their game and not Ireland’s game bottonline Go Bokke🍻🍻🍻🍻

[@draxiedru]

As a rugby supporter I haven’t been so excited or nervous for a game. Ireland have the complete game plan but SA play a World Cup game plan. Just hope there are no serious injuries for either side so they can both win their quarters and possibly meet up again for the what could be the final of all finals. .

[@jacqloock]

Damian de Allende played all his early rugby at 13. Willemse’s best position is 12. So Kriel injury is no crisis.

[@ayandaveli2882]

That's true

[@hydrophobicgoldfish]

My two favourite teams toe to toe, I'm looking forward to it even more. But....I feel for Ireland, it's going to be a PUNISHING physical drain. Going to be close though for sure

[@oshead]

The 7:1 split is only 1 player different than the 6:2 split. All the talk about 7:1 is just pure hype.

[@jadenphilander8799]

If boks are in the lead by 60min and the 7 forwards come from the bench, Ireland will not win.

[@romainviry3185]

@@jadenphilander8799 most of them will be on the pitch before the 60 min mark otherwise it does not make much sense

[@rethabileshai507]

​@@romainviry3185lol one player makes a huge difference mate

[@john-louiswepener2230]

Some great armchair coaches and pundits here. 1 more chap the Size of RG Snyman thats fresh is a massive advantage. The backs wont be nearly as tired as the forwards and that 1 fresher man makes all the difference in a game that will be dictated by the forwards

[@oshead]

@@john-louiswepener2230 Well just watch Ireland put the SA backs to work. One mistake. Yellow, injury, high tackle and yez are fooked.

[@matheoitachi508]

can't wait for this game. gonna be a good one 💯

[@neilkellett732]

Totally agree lads. The 7:1 is a Psy-Op and is meant to unnerve and disrupt us in reaction. It is a Boks Haka! We must not deviate from our winning formula and in not deviating, not reacting, show our unshakeable belief, we can give them some Irish cud to chew

[@Getouttahere78]

The team that will win is the team that absorbs the pressure the best ‼️

[@Titanium351]

Everyone talking about this game as if it's going to usher in the second coming, really hope both teams put on a great performance.

[@SKYWALKER____]

Big game mate, number 1 and 2 playing in a world cup is always special, especially if they playing each other in a group stage

[@mohau]

Hopefully it won't be spoiled by cards

[@deppresedonion6320]

I think they will meet in the final aswell .

[@20165776YEAR]

yeah Jesus is coming soon

[@francisconnell530]

The biggest worry for me is that a lot of the Irish media are suggesting very different tactics to what I think Farrell has planned and with an overhyped game have completely forgotten the fact that Ireland can still absolutely loose this game and win this World Cup. "hold on to the ball" and "win at the breakdown" against this freak show? I would imagine Farrell will want to kick almost constantly for the first 20 minutes and get those big SA bodies moving then pounce in the second quarter with rehearsed powerplays off phase. Go in with a decent lead forcing early changes by tiring forwards in the first half through kicking and then hold on for dear life at the end of the game. This is Ireland's worst match up regarding style of play in the tournament. I hope the media remembers that and keeps the confidence high if we don't execute and loose. We match up very well against every other team in the tournament.

[@homonaledi640]

13 min video. 10 minutes about South Africa. 3 minutes about Ireland.

[@will_274]

Ireland should be favourites. They have earned that right. A big game, but not a knock out. Winning a quarter final will be the benchmark.

[@ShaunDonovanDaniels]

I'm super excited for this game it takes me back the first time Ireland beat NZ in USA

[@nathindlovu9983]

It's gonna be a very tough game but the Boks will pull through here. Our strength, speed upfront and the bench should give us an edge. Go Bokke🙌🏼🙌🏼🙌🏼

[@barrys1342]

About the rest of the team…formidable sportsmen up against a fantastic opponent, pivot point of the World Cup Go Bokke go 💪🏽🔥💪🏽❤️

[@barry8497]

lads, they'll be able to bring on 2 more forwards than us - that's all..

[@livestreamfx]

That's 40% more.

[@barry8497]

@@livestreamfx well done

[@rolotomasi5935]

Arguably the two inventors of Guerilla warfare, on the battlefield against each other. AWESOME

[@iangordon-brown5407]

And Quagga Smith is very comfortable with the back line. So actually it is a 6.5 1.5 split.

[@shaunbentham7361]

I think Andy Farrell will play into the Springboks game with a 6 - 2 split just to show the Boks that they can match them physically. The British and Irish lions tried it and came up short. 🎉😢

[@brandonboois5844]

RSA in chaos, really. This is laughable. Final score RSA 25 IRE 6 (TWO DROP KICKS)

[@benjicool2808]

I feel like the springbok are hovering around the 7-1 to tire and scare all the teams, and in the semi finals he will unleash the backline that is by far the fastest in the WC

[@MorrisdeSaucer]

Jesus, Ireland have bench too😅, Trimble is talking as if we will have to 7 fowards with no bench from us a bit OTT , bring it on,

[@FeliciaKiel-f3s]

We the springboks are ready for irland we will beat them we will be behind our team together we are one GO BOKKE

[@wihanvanzyl4564]

Let's not worry about the 7:1 split and focus on our own game, but let's discuss the 7:1 split for the rest of the conversation😂

[@vuyomasuku9779]

Let's go Bokke 🇿🇦. This match was more suited for the final.. 💯🔥🔥🔥🔥

[@georgekiblor8240]

To be honest the 7-1 isn’t a new thing to Rugby. It’s straight out of HighSchool Rugby. SA aren’t saying they will bully Ireland, they are saying rather: “We will take you back to School Boy Rugby now!” These things have been done before , South Africa are not gunning for penalty kicks more than they are gunning for tries. South Africa want to win on tries and that’s why they haven’t bothered to care much about kicking and keep giving Manie a chance as the supposed “poor” 10. It’s also important to note that the number 10 role in Rugby isn’t just kicking nudge nudge wink wink! Personally I don’t think there’s any 10 like Manie Libbok at the moment. He is class

[@mattlaw8866]

Can't wait for the first knock-on or penalty Scrum. Speed Vs power. Attack Vs defence. This is gonna be the game of the group stages.

[@20165776YEAR]

Ireland will crack in this game, all winning streaks come to an end

[@fonz114]

Yeah, Who cracked numbnuts We are STILL no 1! Ireland 🇮🇪

[@francisconnell530]

The biggest worry for me is that a lot of the Irish media are suggesting very different tactics to what I think Farrell has planned and with an overhyped game have completely forgotten the fact that Ireland can still absolutely loose this game and win this World Cup. "hold on to the ball" and "win at the breakdown" against this freak show? I would imagine Farrell will want to kick almost constantly for the first 20 minutes and get those big SA bodies moving then pounce in the second quarter with rehearsed powerplays off phase. Go in with a decent lead forcing early changes by tiring forwards in the first half through kicking and then hold on for dear life at the end of the game. This is Ireland's worst match up regarding style of play in the tournament. I hope the media remembers that and keeps the confidence high if we don't execute and loose. We match up very well against every other team in the tournament.

[@whiteafrican5895]

This is going to be a monster of a clash! the best against the best go boks😊

[@Sia_Meleni]

I enjoy watching other media Broadcast being fairly Biased than I enjoy watching my own Rugby show on supersport becz you know where the Beauty is? It is when you see the shock in their faces when they have to do a post match preview. I'm not saying we don't do the same but at least have some respect for world Champs.

[@kevinmurphy5249]

The team selection from SA teaches us nothing. We knew they were all about forward power, we knew their game has evolved and they can now play a more expansive style. We knew about the quality they have in the pack. They are playing 2nd and 3rd choices in some back positions but have great depth. I don't think there is much surprising about this squad selection and I suspect we may see changes on Saturday morning.

[@aidanmasterson50]

I reckon one of the bomb squad pulls up at the last minute fake injury and Andre Pollard comes onto the bench.

[@stephenflood3463]

If Ireland win this massive game on Saturday against South Africa us fans are going to be partying for two weeks straight. I know I am.

[@freddieb3537]

Hey you buying the first round?

[@stephenflood3463]

@@freddieb3537 What a game man what a game!..ha!..ha!..my nickname is Freddy, as in Freddy Krueger!..first round is on me buddy, happy days, I'm ecstatic right now!..and half pissed😂🍻🇮🇪

[@freddieb3537]

@@stephenflood3463 Oh man it was nerve wracking alright it was 8-10 for so long. Enjoy the few pints. I'll get the second round. Sláinte! 🍻

[@stephenflood3463]

@@freddieb3537 Cheers Fred!🍻

[@brianwyse5810]

Game of the tournament, surely the winner reaches the final

[@chriswalford9228]

Don't call me Shirley and could be the worst game of the tournament

[@jonbrook4009]

Boks by 10. You can't go through the Boks, you have to go around them. Well, good luck with that as well. You can talk about physicality all you want - and Ireland can certainly compete toe-to-toe - but mentally I think SA will be tougher. They've been there, seen it, etc; 3xWC winners, they know what it takes. I think only a two or more injuries might derail them.

[@draterlarebil4506]

Rassie is a boogeyman man😂😂

[@houndofzoltan]

Excited about this game, should be a belter.

[@sacitizen1089]

Ranking in a World Cup means nothing it’s all about taking your chances. The best team on the day will win and then focus on the next one.

[@rethabileshai507]

Honestly enjoyed this

[@SiyoyoStofile-kw6yh]

I'm in love😍 That blondie speaks fluent rugby

[@philipmcdonald7370]

She's a Grand Slam winner for Ireland and now a coach at Munster. Great pundit and usually calls the right result without any bias.

[@wiseone1013]

The fans think Ireland can beat the Boks but I doubt that. Make no mistake, this is a world class Springbok team, well managed and come Saturday, Ireland will receive the treatment New Zealand, England, Wales, Australia, Argentina received at the hands of the Boks. Even though the Boks can afford to lose this game, they won't. The Boks always won the World Cup as an underdog, but this time even the UK bookmakers make them the clear outright favourites.

[@ciaranoconnor4027]

The treatment we had at the hands of South Africa last two times out was that we beat you. See you on Saturday you arrogant sod.

[@wiseone1013]

@@ciaranoconnor4027 Fighting words won't save you.. How dare you call me arrogant?

[@craigweideman6194]

Dude, just calm down. The boks may well lose it and then you look like an idiot. What then?

[@wiseone1013]

@@craigweideman6194 I don't mind how it looks to anyone. I cannot control what happens. I gave an opinion, I'm not identified or invested in it.

[@craigweideman6194]

@@wiseone1013 Well, you haven't really framed it as an opinion so much as a statement, that's the problem.

[@AC-hu3xk]

So confident the Pundits .....about Ireland.....😅you guys don't know the SA has depth....what the injuries... they have enough cover....

[@brianboyle2681]

Wrong

[@Alias-gy3tz]

I don't know, they don't sound all that confident to me. It sounds like they respect the Springboks but fancy their team's chances. Nothing wrong with that. Go Bokke!

[@christiaansmit1380]

Was thinking the same thing. We dont need backline player because we have so much cover.

[@Powertoyah32]

@@Alias-gy3tzall the Bok fans are mental

[@notenoughstones3873]

Didn’t think they sounded confident at all. Obviously they are going for Ireland to win, they’re all Irish!

[@Kpmg12]

Just as SA could technically afford a loss against NZ in London but was very excited for that and same goes here (could afford a loss and still make the playoffs) but so damn excited

[@johnmccann8319]

Well said panel! 100% agree.

[@guyvandenberg9297]

A lot of talk about the power game from the 7:1 split. Not too many people talking about the 3 fetchers that are part of the bench.

[@siyabongasiyo1270]

“ Everyone has a plan, until I punch them in the face “ Mike Tyson. All I am saying is you can plan all you want, Ireland know what’s coming, physically they better ready. As for Libok, I don’t think he will kick for the poles much, maybe the plan will be kick the first three penalties and let’s see how it goes and if you miss the Faf will kick and Damian and Cheslin, what a pleasure. You have 3 guys on the field who can help your flyhalf to kick for poles. I think Libok will just play his game and just be creative that’s all, and not put pressure on himself in terms of kicking for poles. That’s all.

[@mikewartnaby]

It's kind of weird how focused they are all on South Africa. Isn't there a team that they are playing, like the number 1 team?

[@oratilemakgaka8411]

Honestly as a SAFFA i am proud of SA.... NZ AND WORLD RUGBY FOR A NUMBER OF YEARS HAVE BEEN CHANGING RUGBY INTO. " TOUCH RUGBY". I. Am proud that our nation is reminding the world that RUGBY IS A COLLISION sport . We take pride in physicality because thats what rugby is..... Lets play tough rugby then.

[@HerbalTee29]

Your not the only team with a big pack, I think you might find that out this RWC

[@onelokie]

@@HerbalTee29 This is not a point. The point is to use the big men physicality not their appearance. SA's back line is more ferocious than some of the teams forwards.

[@MMM-28-28]

Things are different now. Professional players are elite these days. They're stronger and faster. For years world rugby has been keeping the concussion problem not widely known. The game has to evolve because the players skill levels strength and fitness has already evolved. All the changes are made to protect the players while still trying to promote an exciting game. And toughness will still be there but I'd say world rugby is on a good path. So many countries have upped their games and professionalism

[@Leon-en9il]

@@HerbalTee29it ain’t about being big - it’s about being dominant , united and scary. Not to mention well managed . Just look how the AB forwards dominated the boks rested clever pack not that long ago in rugby championship. Anything is possible - whoever brings the scary.

[@Leon-en9il]

This game is coming down to discipline - yellow cards…how many and when?!!?. I smell a red for SA. It’s sadly inevitable. Cards decide this game - as they always do .

[@JohnMichaels-fs7bi]

Springboks - "We not afraid of them. We welcome war."

[@redneckReno]

I think Andy Farrell knows what he's doing and doesn't care what Rassie does.

[@Natedawg38]

Pretty good panel. Pity virgin commentators are pretty bad

[@mitakon21]

Have the Springboks been building up for this game too...or just Ireland? "Naive"...good word, very apt!

[@Chris_Rugby]

Going to put it out there. As a Saffa, I almost hope Ireland win. I do NOT want to face NZ in the quarter finals. NZ are SA's Achilles heal when it comes to World Cups- NZ hold a psychological advantage over SA despite the warm up game. France have no psychological advantage over SA- they barely managed to beat SA in the last game when SA were down to 14 men lol.

[@ronaldobrien6870]

Whereas Ireland would rather face NZ than France. It wouldn't even be a huge surprise if that's the way it actually panned out in the quarter finals and both teams made the semi final from there.

[@Chris_Rugby]

@@ronaldobrien6870 Indeed!

[@hughjanus2020]

McKinley and Trimble were good here. I like hearing their thoughts.

[@robinelliot5003]

As much as we'd love to win, I think this is a data capturing game for South Africa. Based on current form, these two teams should meet in the final. I think this is more about the plans made in practice, the execution there of and what possible counters our opposition has too it. Come knock out stages we'll have a better idea of our strategy. I expect our bench to drag Ireland into the abis late into the game and we'll all see if they can survive there.

[@kooskleynhans1636]

I would like to hear you all after the match.

[@cornedenecker1636]

Haha this game will be great. Im so excited. Lets hope the Boks show the world how good we really are.

[@wiseone1013]

Ireland is NOT a bogey team for the Springboks! The record reads played 27 with 18 SA wins vs 8 for Ireland, 1 draw. Ireland being a strong team historically, that is a good record for SA to be proud of. Ireland is going to get wiped out and won't be outsmarting anyone.

[@thisguy976]

I don't think games from 1906 really matter though, don't you think?

[@wiseone1013]

@@thisguy976 Looking at it closer, it appears Ireland has had the better of the Boks in recent times. The long ago history is trivial, I concede.

[@jimmyobrien8738]

​@@wiseone1013the professional rugby era started in the late 90s so that means ye are leading 9-7

[@wiseone1013]

@@jimmyobrien8738 This is a little less impressive 😞

[@jimmyobrien8738]

@@wiseone1013 overall it's close since the professional era yes

[@mohamedafeef5840]

Two of favourites for world cup facing each other

[@fergusmccarthy7736]

Great discussion. LOVE Fiona Hayes. Can't wait.

[@BelloBudo007]

As a somewhat depressed Wallaby Fan, it's good to hear these sensible discussions. Not at all sure which team I think has the edge. Both clearly very good. My gut tells me Ireland may just outthink Sth Africa.

[@ismailfrancis6159]

Rassie has the whole world talking ❤