Rugby, football fans set for blockbuster weekend

South Africa is braced for a blockbuster sporting weekend, with Bafana Bafana hosting Lesotho in a crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier today, the Springboks chasing a first win in Auckland in 88 years against the All Blacks tomorrow, and the Springbok Women continuing their historic World Cup run against France on Sunday.

- MIKE GREENAWAY AND HERMAN GIBBS

Rugby fans across the globe will tune in to Eden Park, where the Springboks and the All Blacks clash in the juiciest rugby fixture since the same teams contested the World Cup final in 2023.

The Boks won that match 12-11, and the coaches of both teams are expecting an equally tight encounter on Saturday morning (9.05am). Bok coach Rassie Erasmus says “every point will count” and that the team that handles the pressure best will prevail.

The Springboks have not won at Eden Park since 1937, while the All Blacks are protecting a proud record of 50 matches unbeaten at the stadium they revere more than any other in New Zealand.

The Springboks have won their last four matches against New Zealand, and if they extend their run to five, it will be a first in the 109-match, 104-year history between the fierce rivals.