Springboks vs France: Former Forward Expects Individuals to Make ...

13 Oct 2023

Sports Brief

Jarryd Westerdale

October 13, 2023 at 9:33 AM

The Springboks take on France in an intense and highly anticipated World Cup quarter-finalFormer Springbok Schalk Brits has weighed in with his opinion of which facets will be keyFrance are not concerned about Antoine Dupont's facial injury as he has been cleared to play

With every passing hour, the tension builds towards Sunday night.

Springboks vs France - Figure 1 — Photo Sports Brief

Reigning world champions, South Africa take on hosts France at the Stade de France, with generational consequences.

Les Bleus have been grooming this squad to be their first-ever winners of the competition, while the pack of Boks aims to match their old rivals' back-to-back success.

Schalk Brits has given his thoughts on what will decide the Rugby World Cup quarter final clash between South Africa and France. Photo: @BootsenAlles. Source: Twitter

Former Springbok forward, Schalk Brits has given his analysis of what will define the clash.

He admitted to having loved watching the two teams over the past few years and said it was regrettable that such a quality tie came so early in the competition.

Springboks vs France - Figure 2 — Photo Sports Brief

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In an interview published by Planet Rugby, Brits stated the importance of keeping pace from the onset.

"Staying with them in that first half, or even first quarter, is the biggest challenge. If either side gets into two-score margin situations, turning the match around from there will be almost impossible."

The 2019 World Cup winner has put his faith in the forwards, acknowledging the talent of the French, but expecting his former teammates to deliver.

"Duane Vermeulen is coming back to his very best. We have some incredible locks, and starting Franco Mostert with the ability to bring RG Snyman on is a key point of difference for us."

French talisman, Antoine Dupont has been a point contention throughout the week. In the days before the contest, questions have been raised about the wisdom of playing the scrumhalf so soon after his injury.

Springboks vs France - Figure 3 — Photo Sports Brief

RugbyPass quoted Dupont's teammate, Gregory Alldritt expressing confidence when he said:

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"We know that in rugby if you touch the head, it’s a red card. [Dupont] saw his surgeon who gave him the green light."France vs South Africa too close to call

Sports Brief recently compiled a preview of the titanic World Cup tussle that awaits France and South Africa.

It may be an unfamiliar position for the Springboks, but they come into this quarter-final as slight underdogs.

Making a decision is as good as a coin toss and making a prediction comes with an element of heart over mind.

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