Rugby-Early scores may be secret to settling outcome of World Cup final

RUEIL-MALMAISON, France (Reuters) – Both New Zealand and South Africa are expected to prioritize a strong start in the Rugby World Cup final on Saturday, aiming to establish an early lead that sets the tone for the match at the Stade de France, according to All Blacks defense coach Scott McLeod on Monday.

“It is no secret that both teams will be focusing on the first 20 minutes,” he stated during a press conference as the countdown to the final between the two long-standing rivals commenced.

“The key will be executing with precision. We discussed this morning the importance of accuracy and applying pressure simultaneously. However, the Springboks will also aim to begin the game strongly, so we will prepare for that as well.”

The previous encounters between the All Blacks and Springboks this year have been marked by quick starts. In July, New Zealand surged to a 17-0 lead within the first 12 minutes when they faced South Africa in the Rugby Championship in Auckland, ultimately securing a 35-20 victory.

In their World Cup warm-up match at Twickenham in late August, South Africa dominated the first half and entered halftime with a 14-0 advantage. They maintained their superiority in the second half, securing a comprehensive 35-7 win over the Kiwis.

“We felt that we were perhaps a little superior and faster in the first game, while we were slower in the second game. We learned a lot from that experience,” McLeod added.

Regarding New Zealand’s approach on Saturday, McLeod stated that their analysis of the semi-final triumph against Argentina highlighted the need to exploit available spaces more effectively.

“Argentina were incredibly physical, and we had to work hard to break through, but there were also opportunities for us to exploit. The Springboks play a similar style, putting immense pressure and attacking quickly,” he further explained.

“We intend to confront their formidable players who charge in fiercely, face-to-face, and demonstrate exceptional accuracy in the set-pieces. The tournament has shown that you must maintain focus for every single scrum.”

McLeod also emphasized the importance of tackling the South African kicking game.

“In the tournament, we have not encountered much of that, so we will specifically address it this week. They excel in contesting aerial balls and regaining possession,” he concluded.

(Reporting by Mark Gleeson; Editing by Christain Radnedge)