Ciara Griffin: While some nations rise, others appear to fall
KEY MAN: Eben Etzebeth during the South Africa rugby squad captain's run at the Stade de France in Saint Denis. Picture: Brendan Moran/Sportsfile
Saturday's much-anticipated clash between Ireland and South Africa is set to be a defining moment in the tournament. To come out on top against the formidable Springboks, Ireland must execute a well-thought-out game plan that combines physicality, skill, and tactical prowess. It’s a battle of the current World Number 1 side against the current World Champions. And as such, there are key strategies and areas of focus that Ireland need to employ to secure victory.
The first glaring area is dominance upfront from the outset and for the entire 80 minutes. The battle in the forward pack will be critical to Ireland's chances of success. South Africa are renowned for their physicality and strength in the scrum, so Ireland must strive for parity and look to exploit any weaknesses.
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