Overview

• Assistant coach Scott Hansen says New Zealand must show courage, precision and adaptability, anticipating a direct, physical Springboks side that will contest heavily in the air.
• Attack coach Jason Holland calls for a balanced plan and sharper skill execution to reach width after the loss in Buenos Aires exposed shortcomings.
• Springbok openside Marco van Staden highlights the breakdown as a primary focus after lessons against Australia and expects a tougher All Blacks contest at the ruck.
• Eden Park context looms large with New Zealand unbeaten in 50 Tests at the venue, where South Africa have not won since 1937 and last played in 2013.
• World Rugby permutations add weight as a draw or win would lift South Africa to No. 1, a New Zealand defeat would drop them to third, the Freedom Cup is in play, and Ardie Savea’s 100th cap is possible pending selection.