Despite Springboks' triumphant 29-24 victory over the All Blacks in Soweto, Springboks coach Rassie Erasmus emphasized that their task is not yet complete. The teams traveled to the USA on Saturday evening, where they face the fourth and final match of the series in Baltimore.
The South African national team leads this great rivalry series 2-1, but New Zealand's win on Saturday evening (at 23:00 Saudi time) will result in a draw in the series.
On the conclusion of the series
Erasmus noted that although many thought the series was taking place in South Africa, it is not, as they played three matches at home, holding a one-match advantage. Nevertheless, the final game is yet to come. He added: 'We cannot lose it anymore because there is no difference in points or tries scored, like in a decisive round. But the trophy was originally designed in two parts to be shared in case of a draw. So, the game continues.'
Erasmus joked that he and All Blacks coach Dave Rennie might share a beer on the flight to America, although the drinks would be different. He continued: 'I hope Dave will drink with me on the flight. His will be a little more bitter, and mine a little sweeter.'
After arriving on Sunday, the team will return to camp to assess injuries and begin planning. Erasmus stressed the importance of the confrontation: 'This is the greatest rivalry, and we are playing trying to win the series, and they will be trying to level it. So, no, it will be damn important.'
Details of the Soccer City match
Springboks had to fight for every inch to secure the victory in Soccer City, trailing until the 58th minute before taking control in the closing stages. They managed to create a two-point lead just 10 minutes before the end of the match, which was filled with drama and sharp changes in pace.
Erasmus expressed satisfaction after the game: 'We are happy today. It was epic. It was tense.' He added that the final score showed how close the game was, and they were simply happy with the win. Now, being on the same plane, they need to try to repeat this success in Baltimore.
Erasmus admitted that the All Blacks dominated most of the first half, praising their ability to retain possession and keep Springboks under pressure. 'They were definitely ahead in the first half,' he said. 'I think we all envy how they handle the ball, and they are certainly brilliant at it.' He noted that luck helped them equalize at halftime, which gave hope.
He described the game as a nerve-wracking experience for all participants. 'I'm not sure what my heart rate was, but we were definitely nervous. And I think they were too.' The narrow margin of victory highlighted how small the differences are between the two leading rugby nations. Erasmus concluded that this fits the hype, and they do not consider themselves 'damn great', believing that a large part of it was luck.
Team squad before the trip to the USA
However, Springboks will be without Cheslin Kolbe in Baltimore, as Erasmus reported that the winger broke his jaw during Saturday's match. Kolbe will not travel to the USA with props Carlu Seydi, Boan Venter, and Ntuthuko Mchunu, as well as versatile forwards Kobus Wise and Ben-Jason Dixon.
Good news came from the backline: Damian Willemse, Grant Williams, and Kanaann Moody, who struggled with injuries in recent weeks, have been cleared for travel.
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