Manie Libbok says the Springboks are sticking to their usual approach ahead of Saturday’s blockbuster Test against France in Paris.
The flyhalf, who came off the bench in the 61-7 win over Japan at Wembley, said the Boks’ focus is on execution rather than emotion as they gear up for a rematch of the 2023 World Cup quarter-final at the Stade de France.
“We prepare for this game like any other Test match,” Libbok said. “We’re focused on ourselves and what we want to do on the field on Saturday, to go and give our best for the team and our country. It’s always a privilege to represent South Africa, and our goal is to get the result.
“Every Test is tough, that’s why it’s called a Test match. Every team we face comes out guns blazing, wanting to take us down, and that makes it a challenge. Mentally and physically, the preparation stays the same for every opponent.”
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However, Libbok acknowledged the quality of France and the physical toll of their last encounter.
“The games we’ve played against them are always tough. They’ve shown the quality they have as a team, and it’s going to be really challenging playing them here.
“It was awesome to get the result in 2023; that match was incredibly intense and physical, and there was just one point in it, but a win is a win.”
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Libbok added that the Springboks have evolved tactically since that World Cup triumph.
“Our main way of playing is still the same, but we’ve made a few tweaks to expand our game and give different problems to the opposition. It’s definitely helped us in the past two years, especially with our evolution.”
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Photo: Paul Harding/Gallo Images
