The All Blacks plan to utilize the altitude factor during the match against the Springboks in the third test of the greatest rugby rivalry, which will take place at the FNB stadium in Soweto on Saturday.
The Greatest Rugby Rivalry
The All Blacks are confident in their ability to adapt to Johannesburg's altitude, having spent half of this week preparing during the second test in Cape Town. Unlike other world rugby teams that would fly out on Sunday after the second match in Cape Town to acclimatize to the thin air in Soweto (the match is scheduled for 5:10 PM).
The New Zealanders, who defeated the Springboks in the first match at Ellis Park, believe they are accustomed to high-altitude conditions. This is why head coach Dave Rennie allowed his players to spend more time in Cape Town, where they had access to the beach and sufficient support.
This gave them extra comfort before flying to Johannesburg for the final matches based in South Africa. Since the series is tied 1-1, a tense match is expected as both teams strive to take the lead before the final test in Baltimore, USA, next week.
An additional advantage for the All Blacks is the statistics: in the last ten encounters at altitude, they have won eight times against the Springboks. Rennie only learned about this statistic on Thursday.
The coach stated that the team will embrace the altitude. He noted: 'I think we need to accept it. We are not inclined to talk much about it. We know it will be tough, but it will be tough for both teams. Nevertheless, we will rely on our physical fitness and mindset to continue working at altitude. We definitely do not see it as a negative game factor here.'
This is a clear signal that the All Blacks intend to play the ball-carrying game against the Boks, even if it might end in failure. However, South Africa will be under pressure after losing the first test at Ellis Park. The New Zealanders lead the High Altitude matches in the greatest rugby rivalry with a score of 1-0. They remain undefeated at the FNB stadium and intend to continue dominating the world champions.