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5h ago

Libbok Named on Bench as Springboks Face Pumas in Durban

Preparation centers on winning the aerial battle against Argentina’s sevens‑bred backs.

WELLINGTON, NEW ZEALAND - SEPTEMBER 13: Kwagga Smith of South Africa scores a try during The Rugby Championship match between New Zealand All Blacks and South Africa Springboks at Sky Stadium on September 13, 2025 in Wellington, New Zealand. (Photo by Hagen Hopkins/Getty Images)
Steve Haag/Gallo Images
Manie Libbok nails five conversions and a penalty against the All Blacks in Wellington. Picture: Hagen Hopkins/Getty Images

Overview

  • South Africa host Argentina at Kings Park on Saturday at 5:10pm in the Rugby Championship, with a Twickenham rematch next week that could decide the title depending on this weekend’s results.
  • Manie Libbok’s recent goal‑kicking gains continue to be a storyline after he went 6/7 against the All Blacks and 5/5 against the Barbarians, crediting extra work and competition with Handré Pollard and Sacha Feinberg‑Mngomezulu.
  • Libbok highlighted the Pumas’ quick, agile backs with sevens pedigrees and strong aerial skills, calling that contest a key test for the hosts.
  • Kwagga Smith flagged Argentina’s mobile loose forwards and turnover threat, forecasting a bruising forward battle against a physical pack.
  • Feinberg‑Mngomezulu starts at flyhalf with Libbok providing impact off the bench, as the Springboks emphasize breakdown control and managing forwards’ energy for set‑piece and red‑zone punch.