South Africa vs Ireland 2nd Test Predictions - Springboks to seal series with a closely fought win

Marc Thomas

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Last updated: 11 Jul 2024

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Marc Thomas 11 Jul 2024

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Last week, South Africa beat Ireland by 7 points.
South Africa aims to secure the series after a crucial win.
Ireland needs to overcome injuries and improve performance.

Expired

Ireland have won 4 of their last 5 matches against South Africa (Getty Images)

South Africa vs Ireland Predictions

Last week was an epic match between the best two sides in the world at the moment and it showed. I don’t see it being much different in Durban this weekend either, so I’m backing Ireland to get within the nine-point handicap.

South Africa vs Ireland Predictions
Head to Head
South Africa Form
South Africa Injuries & Team News
Ireland Form
Ireland Injuries & Team News

In the last 11 matches between these two sides, only twice has a side won by more than 9 points.

South Africa beat Ireland by 7 points last weekend.
South Africa have won 8 of their last 9 matches.
Ireland have won 4 of their last 6 matches.
Ireland have won 4 of their last 5 matches against South Africa.

Head to Head

Ireland have won four of their last five games against the Springboks, but it was South Africa that won last weekend 27-20 at Loftus Versfeld.

South Africa Form

South Africa will be very eager to secure this series after their poor run of results against Ireland in recent years. Despite being back-to-back World Cup winners, last week was the Springboks first win over Ireland since 2016.

On the day in Pretoria, the Springboks always looked to have the upper hand, but Ireland constantly fought back, refusing to allow the hosts to pull away. The match was full of controversy as well with an Ireland try ruled out.

The 27-20 win for South Africa was however crucial, and they have clearly expanded on their game. Their play was far more adventurous and while there is still plenty to work on, overall, the hosts will be pleased.

South Africa Injuries & Team News

Rassie Erasmus has named an unchanged side from last weekend.

Ireland Form

The best Ireland can hope for is to level the series in Durban this weekend. With it being only a two-match series, there is little margin for error.

Ireland were not poor last week, but their first half performance left much to be desired. They, however, stayed in the game and took their limited opportunities.

In the end, the Irish had to chase the game in the final few minutes to draw after a late try got them within touching distance. It was not to be, but they certainly have the quality to hit back this Saturday.

Ireland Injuries & Team News

Andy Farrell will be forced into changes this weekend with three players already confirmed out due to injury.

Verdict

South Africa v Ireland 2nd Test

I am backing Ireland to get within the +9 handicap and for the game to see under 45 points.

Ireland +9

Handicap

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Under 45 Points

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