The Springboks team hopes to overcome the defeat against the All Blacks at FNB Stadium after two losses to their main rivals at the iconic 2010 Rugby World Cup venue.
Two matches within the 2010 and 2012 Tests between these teams are the only international rugby matches held at a stadium with a capacity of 94,000 spectators. In both instances, the Springboks lost: in 2010 under Peter de Villiers, and in 2012 under Heineke Meyer.
This weekend, the Boks and All Blacks return to Soweto on Saturday for the third match of the greatest rivalry in rugby. South Africa aims to gain a 2–1 advantage in the series before next week's final in Baltimore, USA.
Review of the Two Previous Landmark Encounters
The first meeting took place during the Tri-Nations in 2010, where South Africa lost to New Zealand with a score of 22–29. This match remained in the memory of both teams as a triumph and a disappointment. The game was played in front of a huge crowd of 94,713 people, setting a record for professional rugby in South Africa. In this match, Springboks captain John Smith made his 100th international appearance in the colours of the 'green and gold'. The hosts led 22–14 after 15 minutes thanks to 17 points from Morné Steyn.
However, the exhausted Boks team could not withstand the late onslaught from the New Zealand side. Richie McCaw scored a controversial touchdown in the corner to level the score, despite replays suggesting it was out of play and an offside pass had been made during the attack. The decisive moment came a few moments later when Ma'a Nonu broke through the center of the field—and Smith, ironically, failed to make the crucial tackle—setting up the play for Dagga Israel, who scored the winning touchdown, securing a dramatic comeback.
The second match, which took place during the 2012 Rugby Championship, saw the Springboks lose 16–32 to New Zealand. Two years later, Heineke Meyer brought the Springboks back to Soweto in search of redemption, leading the team of Juan de Villiers in front of 80,753 fans. The Boks started strongly when Bryan Habana crossed the line in the twelfth minute, but the entire day belonged to the visitors.
The All Blacks methodically dismantled the hosts, scoring four touchdowns through Sam Whitelock, Aaron Smith, Nonu, and Conrad Smith. Dan Carter added 12 points with kicks, including a drop goal in the second half, allowing New Zealand to easily secure the result and extend their impressive High Country record against the Boks.
