Nations Championship: What the Springboks need from France and Ireland

The Springboks’ Nations Championship campaign resumes in around a week.

South Africa are set to face Italy in Turin, with their trophy ambitions on the line.

Here’s why Rounds 5 and 6 could matter more for Rassie Erasmus and the team.

2026 Nations Championship: Where things stand

The Springboks are first on the Southern Hemisphere table, according to the Nations Championship website.

New Zealand are second and are the only other unbeaten team in the competition.

The two giants are level, but South Africa leads thanks to a massive 30-point difference.

However, they are all too aware that a single bad result opens the door for the All Blacks.

On the Northern Hemisphere table, France are top with 2 wins from 3 games.

Scotland have been impressive to hold on to second place and are a single point behind.

England and Ireland, placed third and fourth, remain within closing distance.

Like South Africa, France are one poor game away from losing their lead.

Rassie Erasmus has included six uncapped players in the #Springboks squad for their Nations Championship tour next month – more here: https://t.co/VWuD2xjAFF #ForeverGreenForeverGold pic.twitter.com/Fm0eqzbm9n

— Springboks (@Springboks)

October 28, 2026

Matches ahead for the Springboks and All Blacks

The Nations Championship fixture page highlights each team’s path to the final round.

South Africa travel to the Juventus Stadium in Turin to face Italy on 7 November.

The next rounds are their crunch fixtures.

The Springboks visit Stade de France on 13 November to meet Les Bleus.

A week later, on 21 November, they face the Dublin Arena and Ireland.

By comparison, New Zealand have a slightly easier path to the final, on paper.

They take on Scotland on 7 November, but this is not likely to be a walkover.

Next up for the All Blacks is Wales on 14 November, at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff.

Their final fixture could be the decider as England wait at Twickenham Stadium on 21 November.

The Nations Championship finals weekend runs from 27-29 November in London.

WILL SOUTH AFRICA WIN THE INAUGURAL COMPETITION?

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