Following a surprising defeat in Argentina last weekend, the Springboks are back on home soil this Saturday.
As the team gears up for their crucial match at Mbombela Stadium, excitement is building not just for the rugby but also for a beloved tradition: the singing of the South African national anthem.
Anthem Performer: Nina Brand Takes Center Stage
One of the highlights of this upcoming match will be South African pop singer-songwriter Nina Brand, who has been chosen to sing the national anthem before the game.
Known for her hit single “Think I’m in Love,” which has gained international radio play, Nina Brand brings a unique flair to this momentous occasion.
The Cape Town-based artist, who is also a college student and qualified chef, will aim to get the crowd in Nelspruit singing along just before kick-off.
Nina Brand’s Musical Journey
Nina’s love for music began at a young age, inspired by a wide range of musical influences.
“I grew up listening to various artists and genres,” she shares.
“The ones that have stuck with me are Queen, Adele, John Mayer, and Green Day.”
It was watching the movie August Rush as a six-year-old that truly solidified her calling to make music.
“I felt so connected to the main character, and I knew I wanted to be part of that world,” she adds.
What’s at Stake for the Springboks
On the rugby side, the stakes are high.
The Springboks need just one point from this match to secure their first Rugby Championship title since 2019, and their first full tournament title since 2009.
There’s also a chance they could win the championship even if they lose, as long as Argentina fails to secure a bonus point.
However, if Argentina wins with a bonus point while preventing the Springboks from earning any points, they would claim the title based on their head-to-head record.
Key Stats and Records
Springboks’ Dominance Over Argentina
- Played: 37
- Won: 32
- Lost: 4
- Drawn: 1
- Points for: 1,267
- Points against: 720
- Tries scored: 148
- Tries conceded: 69
- Highest score: 73-13
- Win percentage: 86.4%
Milestones to Watch
- Eben Etzebeth is set to become the most capped Springbok of all time, earning his 128th cap this weekend, surpassing Victor Matfield’s previous record of 127.
- South Africa has won 15 of the 16 encounters between the two teams on home soil. Argentina’s sole victory in South Africa came in 2015.
- Handré Pollard has moved into second place on the Springboks’ all-time scorers list with 749 points, surpassing Morne Steyn. Percy Montgomery leads the list with 893 points.
- This will be the Springboks’ fifth Test at Mbombela Stadium, and they remain unbeaten at this venue.
What’s Next for the Springboks?
With 778 total Test caps in the starting line-up and 344 caps on the bench, the Springboks are a team rich in experience.
As they prepare for Saturday’s high-stakes match, all eyes will be on both the rugby action and the stirring rendition of the national anthem that will kick off the event.
Will the Springboks secure the title, or will Argentina pull off a dramatic upset? Time will tell.
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