The Springboks and their supporters are hoping to make history with a win against the All Blacks at New Zealand’s Eden Park, also known as the “Fortress”.
While the South African squad has won its last four games against the rugby rivals, it last beat the home country at the 48,000-seater venue almost 90 years ago!
The countries will face off on Saturday, 6 September.
SPRINGBOKS VS ALL BLACKS: HISTORY IN THE MAKING AT EDEN PARK?
The Springboks last beat the All Blacks at Eden Park – nicknamed the “Fortress” – in 1937, when they defeated the hosts 17-6.
The Auckland venue appears to be a good luck charm for the New Zealand national team, which remains unbeaten in the last 59 tests played there.
Their loss was in 1994 against France.
The All Blacks have a phenomenal record against South Africa at Eden Park, with eight wins and a draw taking place since 1937.
The Springboks have won their last four matches against the All Blacks, but will have to contend with homeground advantage and a winning streak from their competitors.
To add to mounting pressure, Ardie Savea is likely hoping for a sweet victory as he makes his 100th test cap this weekend.
‘SPIRITUAL HOME OF NEW ZEALAND’
What makes Eden Park unbeatable when it comes to the All Blacks?
“Eden Park is the spiritual home of New Zealand rugby and holds a special place in the history books of the All Blacks,” Chief Executive Nick Sautner said.
“There’s a whole generation of All Black fans who have never experienced defeat at Eden Park. I can’t think of any other sports team in the world that has maintained an unbeaten record at their national stadium like the All Blacks have”.
Former All Blacks player Ian Jones told BBC Rugby Union Daily podcast: “When you think of it [Eden Park] as your fortress, you protect your fortress with all your might.
“The All Blacks jersey lifted you anyway, but you absolutely knew the expectation to play with all your heart and to not lose at Eden Park.
“And because of that history, you feel bulletproof.”
EDEN PARK SHOWDOWN: WHO DO YOU THINK WILL WIN?
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