The Springboks tackle Italy this Saturday in an important end-of-year Test, while Bafana Bafana are also in action in an international friendly against Zambia, which is also being viewed as a must-win as they look to boost their FIFA ranking.
Bafana Bafana are on a 24-match unbeaten run – if you disregard the technicality of the reversal in result against Lesotho due to fielding an ineligible player – and the international friendly on Saturday is crucial for Hugo Broos’ team to maintain their top 10 position in the African rankings.
Somewhat similarly, the Springboks must beat an unpredictable Italy team to ensure they don’t suffer a huge upset that would cost them major rankings points.
The frustration for passionate South African sports fans will be as a result of having to choose which game to watch, as they will be played at largely the same time.
The Springboks’ encounter against Italy kicks off at the rather odd time of 14:40 (SA time), while Bafana Bafana’s match gets underway at 15:00.
It will require some divided loyalties, or at least some nifty channel hopping in order for fans to be able to enjoy both games.
Where to watch Springboks and Bafana Bafana
The Springboks’ game will be broadcast live on SuperSport’s Grandstand and Rugby channels, while Bafana Bafana’s game will be live on SABC 1. You can also stream the clash on sabc-plus.com or on the SABC Plus App.
Looking ahead to the game against Zambia, Broos maintained that this is a must-win game.
“For me, friendly games don’t exist. Every game we have to be focused and concentrated, and that will not be any different on Saturday.
“I want to win because it’s important for our ranking, we want to solidify our place in the top ten and retake 9th position after what happened in the Lesotho game.”
Important considerations
For the next FIFA World Cup draw on 5 December, the world rankings will be key in determining the placement of the 48 teams according to their pots.
Meanwhile, the Springboks’ ranking at the end of the year will also have a big bearing on the 2027 Rugby World Cup draw, which takes place on 3 December.