Rugby World Cup 2019: All Blacks defeat has driven Springboks on – Kolisi

Siya Kolisi thinks a defeat to New Zealand has worked in South Africa’s favour in their pursuit of Rugby World Cup glory in Japan.

The Springboks were beaten by the All Blacks in their first game of the tournament but have responded by winning four in a row to reach the semi-finals.

South Africa will face Wales in Yokohama on Sunday for the right to play England – conquerors of New Zealand – in the final next Saturday.

Captain Kolisi says a 23-13 loss to the two-time defending champions five weeks ago has made South Africa accustomed to playing in must-win games.

“We lost the first game so we have been under pressure since then,” said the flanker.

“We have been playing knockout rugby from the beginning but being here for so long has helped us.

“We’ve got used to the environment, we’ve adapted quickly and got to know what works for you and what doesn’t work for you while you’re here. And we have been improving as a team.

“I think our team spirit and understanding of one another as a team and knowing what makes each other tick has been really huge for us.”

From one leader to another. The whole country united.
#StrongerTogether pic.twitter.com/rkHFDbsqfa

— Springboks (@Springboks) October 26, 2019

Kolisi knows what to expect from Wales but says South Africa are confident they can come through the second semi-final if they play to their strengths.

“We know we’re facing a tough opposition but all we can do is focus on what we do best and what got us here,” said Kolisi.

“We’re very excited as a team. We’ve worked hard this week. We have prepped as much as we can and given them the respect they deserve. Bu the most important thing is that we’re effective at what we do – that’s our focus.”

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