Preview of the New Zealand vs. South Africa Rugby World Cup Final: Team Updates, Kick-off Time

Battle for Rugby World Cup Glory: New Zealand vs South Africa

The stage is set in Paris as New Zealand and South Africa go head-to-head in a bid to claim their fourth Rugby World Cup title. This highly anticipated clash is a repeat of the 1995 final, where the Springboks secured victory with a memorable Joel Stransky drop-goal in extra time.

Having previously triumphed in 1987, as well as securing back-to-back titles in 2011 and 2015, the All Blacks aim to become the first nation to win four World Cups. However, South Africa poses a formidable challenge after their dominant performance against New Zealand earlier this year when they inflicted an unprecedented 35-7 defeat on the reigning champions.

In their journey towards this historic encounter, both teams have storied successes at previous tournaments. The Springboks clinched their third title by defeating England 32-12 in Japan four years ago, following their earlier triumph over England in Paris back in 2007.

New Zealand’s road to the final has been characterized by resilience and determination. Despite losing narrowly to Ireland during pool play, they bounced back with one-point victories over France and England thanks to clutch late penalties from fly-half Handre Pollard.

If victorious on Saturday at Stade de France, Captain Siya Kolisi would join Richie McCaw as only the second captain ever to achieve consecutive tournament wins. Additionally, Springboks hooker Bongi Mbonambi has been cleared by World Rugby after allegations of using racial slurs, ensuring his availability for the final.

Under the guidance of head coach Ian Foster, the All Blacks have shown their mettle by defeating top-ranked teams such as Ireland and Argentina on their path to the final. Winger Will Jordan has an opportunity to etch his name in history by becoming the sole record try-scorer at a single World Cup, currently tied with legends Jonah Lomu, Bryan Habana, and Julian Savea.

In terms of team changes, South Africa’s Jacques Nienaber has opted for half-backs Faf de Klerk and Handre Pollard in place of Cobus Reinach and Manie Libbok. New Zealand introduces lock Brodie Retallick to replace Sam Whitelock from their victorious semi-final lineup.

With a starting XV boasting 987 caps compared to New Zealand’s 981, South Africa enters this clash as the current world number one while their opponents hold second place in the rankings.