France 🆚 South Africa: 3 things to know about the Springboks before the clash 🏉

Other than the match between Ireland and New Zealand on Saturday, the clash between France and South Africa is the most eagerly awaited match of these quarterfinals (15/10 – 21:00).

The XV de France may have the advantage of playing at home and can count on a more solid team, but the Springboks are still, and will always, be their bête noire. Here are 3 things you should know about the South Africans before this early final:

1.   A large domination against the Blues

A three-time world champion (1995, 2007 and 2019), South Africa has won World Cup matches 39 times and lost eight since the year of their 1st World Cup title.

In 45 confrontations since 1913, the Springboks have won 27 times against the Tricolores, who have twelve wins and six draws. Quite the impressive ratio.

Moreover, France has never managed to beat South Africa in the World Cup. But the French can hang on to their last encounter in November 2022, which ended in a victory (30-26).

2.   WADA sanctions like a sword of Damocles

Will South Africa play without an anthem and under a neutral banner in the final phase of this World Cup? The threat should be taken seriously as the country has not ratified the new World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) code, which was updated more than two years ago. This case comes as doping suspicions have tarnished the image of the South African team several times.

If the Springboks do not comply by October 14, the selection could be heavily sanctioned, including a ban on hosting international competitions, an end to funding and a ban on raising the national flag and singing the anthem.

3.   Handré Pollard, the comeback of a lethal weapon?

Left out of the World Cup due to a persistent injury, the Leicester Tigers opener was recalled by the Springboks to make up for what had been lacking since the start of the competition in the South African ranks: free kicks (10/20, 50% success). Moreover, it was this weakness that led to the reigning world champions losing against Ireland in the group stage.

Pollard could prove to be the missing piece of this team and cause great harm to Antoine Dupont, who was given the green light to take part in this quarterfinal, and his team.

There is no doubt that this match should not be missed under any circumstances. Which team will you bet on? Take advantage of a +50% LIVE BetXtra on the match!