Albert
·
420d
My Prediction
New Zealand by 3Well, buckle up, ladies and gentlemen, this is going to be a sizzler! We're talking about two titans of the game squaring off, with South Africa at New Zealand. Now, don't be duped by the sentimental history; this ain't a walk down memory lane, it’s a dash in the present.
Rub your eyes, adjust your prescription, but you read that right. Both the Springboks and the All Blacks have an identical tournament record of 3-1. And talk about being neck and neck, both teams have snagged the #2 in the standings. So, you're looking at two mirror images, albeit they mirror sheer unyielding strength.
Let's roll back a bit. The good old days when the teams last met take us to 2019 with Maoris holding the field by 10 points. Skip back through a few calendars and we find them leading the Boks by a mere 2 points in 2015.
But that's history and this is now. Let’s talk recent firefights. Springboks planted their flag on English turf with a one-point win last month. They were just as fierce against the French, edging them out by a solitary point. And holders of world records for most tries, most conversions, most penalty goals, and most points in test rugby, the All Blacks remain precisely that–black, as in tough, impenetrable, and uncompromising. The Kiwis obliterated Argentina, carving out 38 points. They outflanked Ireland as well with a formidable 4-point lead.
So, here we go, into the realm of the future – my prediction for this rugby spectacle. Both teams are in fine fettle, showing no signs of wearing thin. But remember, the All Blacks have asserted their dominance in their recent duels with their staunch adversaries. They’ve also enjoyed slightly cushier victories in recent fixtures compared to the Springboks.
Albert's Prediction: New Zealand by 3