The stage is set in Tbilisi as the Junior Springboks look to back up their record-breaking opening blowout against Uruguay with a high-stakes clash against tournament hosts Georgia.
A win tonight would make history: South Africa has won their last seven matches at the U20 World Championship—tying their all-time best run from 2012/2013. Tonight, they have the chance to stand alone and secure an unprecedented eighth consecutive tournament victory.
With kick-off looming at 18:30 SA Time, follow along as we bring you the live scoring, major moments, and breakdown from this physical encounter.
Complete Match Day Lineups
To manage the quick turnaround, Coach Kevin Foote has heavily rotated his squad, making 11 changes to the starting lineup. Luan Giliomee makes a major tactical switch, moving from fullback to direct the game from flyhalf.
- Junior Springboks Starting XV: 15 Akahluwa Boqwana, 14 Cheswill Jooste, 13 Samuel Badenhorst, 12 Markus Muller, 11 Jack Benade, 10 Luan Giliomee, 9 Hendré Schoeman, 8 Kebotile Maake, 7 Luke Cannon, 6 Wasi Vyambwera, 5 JD Hattingh, 4 Heinrich Theron, 3 Danie Kruger, 2 Siphosethu Mnebelele (c), 1 Oliver Reid.
- The Bench: 16 Liam van Wyk, 17 Rambo Kubheka, 18 Luan van der Berg, 19 Jaythen Orange, 20 Risima Khosa, 21 Jayden Brits, 22 Jordan Steenkamp, 23 Alzeadon Felix.
- Georgia Starting XV: Features six tactical changes, including an overhauled front row with Luka Iaseshvili and Levani Ezieshvili packing down to challenge the Bok scrum.
Coach’s Corner: Expecting a Fierce Backlash
Despite South Africa beating Georgia 54-17 during an international series back in May, Coach Foote expects a completely different beast tonight on Georgian soil following the hosts’ heartbreaking one-point loss to Wales.
“They are a proud and passionate rugby nation and will be disappointed after that narrow loss to Wales,” Foote warned. “We will need to be ready mentally and physically for the challenge they will bring. They will also have a passionate home crowd behind them.”
