The South African women’s rugby team has already secured their place in the quarter-finals of the World Cup, even though they still have to face France in the group stage this weekend. The players have expressed their confidence and enthusiasm, regardless of the opponent they face in the next stage of the tournament. The Springboks Women made history by qualifying for the knockout stage of the World Cup for the first time, after defeating Brazil and Italy in the group stage. Now, they await a good performance against France on Sunday in Northampton.
Johannes-Haupt, in statements to the SA Rugby website, stated that the team is prepared to face the best teams. “We want to play against the best, in this case we play against number four (France) and then, a week later, against the number three or five in the world. That’s what we came for,” he added. Regarding the match against France this weekend, Johannes-Haupt revealed that some tactical and personnel changes will be made compared to the team that defeated Italy.We don’t care who we face in the quarter-finals, as the nature of the competition is that it gets more difficult as you advance.
Laurian Johannes-Haupt, assistant coach, SA Rugby
Johannes-Haupt emphasized the importance of maintaining the direct and physical approach that has been effective in recent months, although the team will be refreshed after three weeks of touring. “The good thing is that everyone is eager to prove that our performances are sustainable and that the great support we receive from home is justified and celebrated,” he concluded.We want to play against them with a particular tactic in mind, so the team will adjust accordingly.
Laurian Johannes-Haupt, assistant coach, SA Rugby
