South Africa coach Jacques Nienaber explained his decision to eliminate Manie Libbok so early in the first half of their Rugby World Cup semi-final win over England. The Springboks broke England’s hearts with a Handre Polland penalty. earning a 16-15 win and with it their position in Sunday’s final against New Zealand, but it wasn’t all plain sailing for Nienaber on a tense night at the Stade de France.
England dominated for the vast majority of the competition, with Owen Farrell being precise with his kicks as he took all the trouble as they took a healthy lead in the second half.
But South Africa managed to get back to the festival thanks to a visit from RG Snyman before the final 10 minutes in Saint-Denis.
Pollard’s penalty was enough to snatch victory from England, who led for 78 minutes of play, as Nienaber celebrated with his players after the final whistle.
SOLO ON Owen Farrell shows his true colours with commentary after England’s loss to South Africa [LATEST]
Nienaber, who has to retire after the tournament to coach Leinster, was forced to make tough in-game resolutions after deciding to withdraw Libbok after just 30 minutes. But his resolve paid off with Pollard’s decisive kick, and he insisted on replacing his starting fly-half. It was mandatory for the team, even if it meant humiliating the 26-year-old.
“The past appearance of this organization is that we’re open and honest, and because we have the right players, the players settle for it,” Nienaber said in his postgame press conference. “Sometimes things don’t go as planned.
“We did it with Bongi [Mbonambi] in 2018. It just wasn’t on fire that day. But he came back the following week. Same with guys like Willie [le Roux], we got him out early, because it didn’t happen the way he wanted.
DON’T MISS: England’s pain as South Africa steps as it weighs on last World Cup hopes [REPORT] Alan Shearer’s brutal blow to news that his daughter is dating Joe Marchant [REACTION] Inside the wildlife of South African boss Rassie Erasmus – from farm ownership to delusional [PROFILE]
“The bottom line is that it’s all for the team, and they perceive that and that’s the good look of the team. We’re open and fair and the players are taking it by the chin and that doesn’t mean we probably won’t start next week. Unfortunately, that’s just the way it is.
“I think every single opportunity we’ve had, we’ve taken it, him and Handré. The kick that he also gave at the beginning was strong. But listen, that’s right, it’s for Sudáfrica. No it’s for the individual, it’s not for the ego, it’s for South Africa.
The Boks will now have a week to prepare for their delightful final and protect their crown against three-time champions New Zealand, who comfortably swept Argentina 44-6 on Saturday.
Buy all your Rugby World Cup 2023 programs here.