South Africa v New Zealand predictions and rugby union tips: Back the Boks

Free rugby union tips, best bets and analysis for South Africa v New Zealand in the Rugby Championship on Saturday.

Where to watch

Sky Sports Action, 4.05pm Saturday

Best bet

South Africa to win by one to 12 points
2pts 6-4 Betfred

Match preview

World champions South Africa turned the screw on New Zealand last week, inflicting their fifth defeat in six matches, and it is hard to see past a similar outcome when the nations reconvene in Johannesburg seven days later.

The Springboks' conservative and defensive gameplan is a risky way to take on the All Blacks, who need just half an opening to launch their dangerous attack and turn a game around.

But those openings just weren't there last week as South Africa executed their plan to perfection. Their high-press defence closed everything down at source and led to uncharacteristic errors from the All Blacks, who found themselves forcing the game.

New Zealand made 158 passes to South Africa's 92 and beat 25 defenders to nine, but nothing came of it until they finally crossed the try-line with two minutes to go.

We may see less ambition and more patience from New Zealand this time which could lead to a more attritional contest, but that only favours the Boks, whose control of possession and territory has been so exacting.

The Boks were tipped last week to win by a margin of no more than 12 points and that looked set to pay out with 20 seconds to go, only for the All Blacks to lose the ball and allow a late try.

This one could be tighter but the Boks know they have what it takes to come out on top.

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