The high-stakes series between New Zealand and South Africa is currently locked up at 1-1. Consequently, national attention now turns to FNB Stadium for the crucial third Test. The upcoming All Blacks Soweto clash will determine which side claims a 2-1 series lead before the international action shifts over to Baltimore.
While the Springboks returned to Johannesburg early to begin intense field preparations, the visitors chose to remain extra days in Cape Town for recovery. However, both coaching staff and core players remain heavily focused on tactical adjustments ahead of Saturday.
All Blacks Soweto Tactical Adjustments and Scrums
The core talking points of the week revolve around scrum battles, attacking structures, and territorial management. Assistant coach Mike Blair discussed the team’s evolution between the first two matches. He noted that playing with constant tempo remains vital for success, though tactical flexibility is equally important.
“We had big improvements from test one to test two. We also understand that you’re not always gonna get the situation where you can play tempo the whole time. So having the ability to balance our game is important… We still want to play with tempo, we want to move around their pack, but there are different ways to fatigue an opposition as well.” — Assistant Coach Mike Blair
Despite losing the second Test 33-26 over the weekend, New Zealand actually outscored South Africa four tries to three and holds an overall nine-to-four try advantage across the series. Therefore, confidence in their attacking execution remains strong. However, Jordie Barrett highlighted the absolute necessity of countering South Africa’s aerial kicking and physical power game during the All Blacks Soweto encounter.
“The blueprint that got the Springboks a victory in the weekend was their power game. And they went to the air a lot, so we’re gonna have to tidy up a lot of stuff around the air, winning the scraps on the ground, and trying to minimise their entries into our half so they can’t get their power game on. And then getting our own game on, too, trying to use the ball within reason. It certainly feels like a knockout stage in a World Cup at the moment. And it’s a game of chess really.” — Jordie Barrett
In addition, scrum set-pieces continue to dominate pre-match analysis following post-match comments from South Africa’s management. The fierce rivalry over set-piece dominance stretches back decades. For instance, the legendary 1956 series saw prop Kevin Skinner famously called out of retirement to deal with South African props Jaap Bekker and Chris Koch in the front row.
Historic FNB Stadium Record and Fan Atmosphere
Furthermore, over 90,000 passionate supporters are expected to pack FNB Stadium on Saturday. The iconic venue is the largest stadium on the continent and usually serves as the home ground for Kaizer Chiefs. Interestingly, New Zealand holds an impressive undefeated record of two wins from two matches at this specific venue.
For example, FNB Stadium was the scene of one of New Zealand’s greatest escapes back in 2010. During that match, Ma’a Nonu famously lost a boot during a tackle attempt on the final play. With one foot clad only in a sock, Nonu raced upfield to set up Israel Dagg for the game-winning try. Two years later, the team secured another convincing 32-16 victory at the same venue before the fixture temporarily relocated to Ellis Park.
Supporters keeping track of upcoming tour dates can view our full 2026 match schedule page. Ticketing details for international matches are available on our rugby ticket information page. To explore statistical records between trans-Tasman rivals, check our breakdown of the All Blacks head-to-head records.
Match Summary Overview
Series Status: Tied 1-1
Venue: FNB Stadium, Soweto (Capacity: 94,000)
Kickoff Strategy: High kicking-game variety & aerial contest control
Historical Record at Venue: 2 Matches, 2 Wins for New Zealand
Next Tour Destination: Baltimore Test Match
For additional official fixtures and rugby news, visit the official World Rugby portal.