South Africa is putting its title back on the line. Crowned four years ago in Japan, the Springboks begin the 2023 World Cup with a promising showing against Scotland, Sunday September 10 at the Vélodrome stadium in Marseille (shot). dispatch at 5:45 p.m.). The South Africans, natural favorites in their own succession, are up against a Chardon XV in great form in recent months. The Scots approach this tournament in the role of outsiders in Pool B, the group of death, which includes another big favorite, Ireland. Follow our live.
Scotland still cursed. Once again, the Scots fell into the toughest group in the competition. In 2019, they had already inherited Ireland and host country Japan. But the XV du Chardon, currently fifth in the World Rugby rankings and with six victories in its last nine matches since February (including one against the B team of the XV of France), has reason to do so. believe.
Significant absences. Heartbreaking. At the beginning of July, Scotland learned of the early retirement of its emblematic captain, Stuart Hogg (100 caps), top scorer in the history of the XV du Chardon (27 tries). The South Africans also have their share of absentees, with three executives from the 2019 coronation who are not traveling to France: Handré Pollard, Lukhanyo Am, and Lood de Jager.
South Africa, a favorite that doesn’t say its name. Since their coronation in Japan, the powerful Springboks have added a new string to their bow with new generation three-quarters, fast and creative. Which further strengthens the power-speed combination of the reigning world champions, even if they blur the lines: “It would be totally stupid to pretend that we carry the label of favorite. We certainly are not”says Rassie Erasmus, director of South African rugby, Rugby pass.