New Zealand and South Africa meet at Eden Park in the latest instalment of arguably rugby's most historic rivalry as the Rugby Championship heats up.
All four sides in the competition have won and lost a game so far, with the All Blacks top of the table due to two bonus points gained in their away games with Argentina. The Springboks are two points back having fell to a shock comeback loss against Australia, before beating them the following weekend.
South Africa have won the last four meetings between these sides - their best record since the 1940s - including the 2023 World Cup final, but have not won at the All Black's spiritual home since 1937. In fact, no side has won there since 1994 with New Zealand protecting an incredible 50-game unbeaten streak.
They might never get a better chance, and the Sporting News brings you all the latest ahead of this heavyweight clash in Auckland.
New Zealand vs. South Africa Prediction and Latest Odds
This one could not be closer to call, and that's reflected in the odds, with the handicap set at -2 for New Zealand at 5/6 odds with Sky Bet, and +2 for South Africa at the same odds.
Even with several injuries and the Boks at full strength, the Eden Park factor should come into play and just see the All Blacks squeeze home.
Prediction: New Zealand -2 (5/6 with Sky Bet)
New Zealand vs. South Africa lineups for Eden Park clash
As mentioned, New Zealand have injury concerns, with their three first-choice scrum halves all out for this one, meaning Finlay Christie is in for his start in over year.
Elsewhere, star forward Ardie Savea will become the 15th All Black to become a centurion when he runs out for his 100th cap in Auckland.
South Africa captain Siya Kolisi returns to the lineup after his knee injury in the opening weekend loss to Australia, but does not skipper the side. Head coach Rassie Erasmus explained his decision, saying the two-time World Cup winning leader was not intended to start until Jean-Luc du Preez, meaning Jesse Kriel retains the captaincy.
Full lineups:
- New Zealand: Will Jordan, Emoni Narawa, Billy Proctor, Jordie Barrett, Rieko Ioane, Beauden Barrett, Finlay Christie; Ethan de Groot, Codie Taylor, Fletcher Newell, Scott Barrett (captain), Tupou Vaa'i, Simon Parker, Ardie Savea, Wallace Sititi. Replacements: Samisoni Taukei'aho, Tamati Williams, Tyrel Lomax, Fabian Holland, Du'Plessis Kirifi, Kyle Preston, Quinn Tupaea, Damian McKenzie
- South Africa: Willie Le Roux, Cheslin Kolbe, Jesse Kriel (captain), Damian de Allende, Canan Moodie, Handre Pollard, Grant Williams; Ox Nche, Malcolm Marx, Thomas du Toit, Eben Etzebeth, Ruan Nortje, Marco van Staden, Pieter-Steph du Toit, Siya Kolisi. Replacements: Jan-Hendrik Wessels, Boan Venter, Wilco Loux, Lood de Jager, Kwagga Smith, Cobus Reinach, Sacha Feinburg-Mngomezulu
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New Zealand vs. South Africa Head to Head record
This will be the 109th meeting between the two most successful rugby nations of all time.
The All Blacks hold the edge overall, but South Africa have beaten them in two World Cup finals (1995 & 2023), and hold a 7-5 winning record under Rassie Erasmus.
| Played | 108 |
| New Zealand wins | 62 |
| South Africa wins | 42 |
| Draws | 4 |
How to watch New Zealand vs. South Africa
- Date: Saturday, September 6, 2025
- Venue: Eden Park, Auckland
- Time: 8:05 a.m. BST
- TV/Streaming: Sky Sports Action