'We can still win World Cup,' insists beaten Boks coach Nienaber

After seeing side beaten by 'exceptional' Ireland in an instant classic, South Africa supremo refuses to pin blame on faulty goal-kicking

ROARING MATCH: South Africa head coach Jacques Nienaber during the 2023 Rugby World Cup Pool B match between South Africa and Ireland at Stade de France in Paris, France. Pic: Ramsey Cardy/Sportsfile

Jacques Nienaber had no qualms with the result at Stade de France on Saturday night but the Springbok coach is adamant that the world champions can still retain their title.

The Bok boss described Ireland’s performance as “exceptional” and highlighted the Six Nations team’s effort at the breakdown as a key reason for the end result. His side, he admitted, was overpowered at their own attacking rucks and especially in losing the ball close to the Irish line.