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Nienaber's 'unique' comparison of England and France can be read two ways

South Africa's head coach Jacques Nienaber (R) and South Africa's flanker Siya Kolisi hold a press conference in Presles, north of Paris, on October 19, 2023, ahead of the France 2023 Rugby World Cup semi-final against England. (Photo by Thomas SAMSON / AFP) (Photo by THOMAS SAMSON/AFP via Getty Images)

South Africa head coach Jacques Nienaber has said his side “know what’s coming” against England on Saturday in the World Cup semi-final after likening their tactics to France’s.

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Nienaber compared the kicking game of both sides this week, describing their style as “unique”. But while he said the Springboks know what’s coming at the Stade de France, the coach also noted it is about executing their game plan on the day.

This comparison can be read two ways. On one hand, there are not many better compliments in the game currently than being likened to France, who were ranked number two in the world last week. Though England have risen to number five in the world after making the semi-finals of the World Cup, the general consensus is that they are still well behind the top four in the world. But Nienaber’s comments show the tactical similarities they have with Les Bleus, although their execution of the tactics may be different.

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WATCH as South Africa’s Director of Rugby Rassie Erasmus talks about the pitfalls of facing England in the World Cup semifinal

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WATCH as South Africa’s Director of Rugby Rassie Erasmus talks about the pitfalls of facing England in the World Cup semifinal

On the other hand, comparing your upcoming opponents to the team you beat just a few days ago could actually be a warning to England from the Boks. While it is probably flattering for Steve Borthwick’s side to be held in the same conversation as France, particularly as Fabien Galthie’s side beat them 53-10 at Twickenham this year, Les Bleus did ultimately fall short against the world champions in the quarter-finals. France entered their match against the Springboks as slight favourites, while England enter as heavy underdogs, so this may well be Nienaber serving England a warning.

“Like the French, they have a unique kicking game, they are comfortable not playing with the ball,” Nienaber said after naming his South Africa squad for the semi-final.

“They like to strangle you, kick the ball in your half, apply the pressure and wait for you to make a mistake. From a tactical point of view, we know what’s coming and we just need to make sure we execute on the day.”

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BoerBok 429 days ago

I find it intriguing that the style of play that the “One dimensional” Boks were accused of in the previous Worldcup (kicking game, giving the ball away, then putting pressure on opposition with strong set phases and exploiting mistakes) seems to be the dominant style adopted by a few of the NH teams. Ironically England in particular, and France did this too but added an impressive speed and attacking play .

I see no one complaining? Can we please hand over the “one dimensional” title to England who have really being working hard for this accolade?

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Ben 429 days ago

I think this will be pretty close game, England do have good kicking game and very good defensive system. Can’t wait for start. They also have no expectation for win resting on them so can play without pressure. I still think “Boks” may be bit flat after last week’s battle. Hope I’m wrong and the Bok’s come out firing like they did first quarter against France. When do England announce their team (have feeling their props may be asking for sick notes)

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Hellhound 4 hours ago
Does South Africa have a future in European competition?

All you can do is hate on SA. Jealousy makes you nasty and it's never a good look. Those who actually knows rugby is all talking about the depth and standards of the SA players. They don't wear blinders like you. The NH had many years to build the depth and players for multiple competition the SA teams didn't. There will be growing pains. Not least travel issues. The NH teams barely have to travel to play an opponent opposed to the SA teams. That is just one issue. There is many more issues, hence the "growing pains". The CC isn't yet a priority and this is what most people have a problem with. Saying SA is disrespecting that competition which isn't true. SA don't have the funds yet to go big and get the players needed for 3 competitions. It all costs a lot of money. It's over using players and get them injured or prioritising what they can deliver with what are available. To qualify for CC, they need to perform well in the URC, so that is where the main priorities is currently. In time that will change with sponsors coming in fast. They are at a distinct disadvantage currently compared to the rest. Be happy about that, because they already are the best international team. You would have hated it if they kept winning the club competitions like the URC and CC every year too. Don't be such a sourmouth loser. See the complete picture and judge accordingly. There is many factors you aren't even aware of at play that you completely ignore just to sound relevant. Instead of being an positive influence and spread the game and help it grow, we have to read nonsense like this from haters. Just grow up and stop hating on the game. Go watch soccer or something that loves people like you.

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