Johan Ackermann, head coach of the Vodacom Bulls, said in the buildup to the highly anticipated Jukskei Derby against the Emirates Lions in the United Rugby Championship on Saturday at Loftus Versfeld at 14:00 (SA Time) that he expects a tough match from the Lions.
Ackermann described the Lions as a "formidable opponent with nothing to lose," highlighting their attacking flair under coach Ivan van Rooyen. "The Lions play with freedom, that's how we built them back in my day. We've prepared for their speed on the edges and set-piece disruption. It's a great test for our defence, which has leaked tries in Europe."
He added that the Bulls' recent 28-24 win over Edinburgh has restored confidence, but the derby demands "peak intensity from minute one."
With several Springboks unavailable due to international duties and injuries, Ackermann has named a blend of experience and youth. Elrigh Louw returns from a knee injury on the bench, a "massive boost."
“He is back earlier than we expected. It’s great to have his experience back and to have someone of his influence returning to the squad.”
Meanwhile, fellow loose forward Hanekom, who suffered a devastating knee injury in June 2025, will need to wait a few more months before making his return.
“Hanekom is unfortunately still out. We can’t determine an exact return date. It’s a daily and weekly process of monitoring how his hamstring responds to rehab. He’ll have a few good sessions, followed by days where things don’t progress as well, and he has to pull back. Every injury is unique, and the rehab team is managing it carefully. We hope he’ll be fine in the near future.”
Ackermann praised the depth: "We've got five Boks in the matchday 23, that's our edge. But it's about the young guys stepping up; this derby could define their careers."
Acknowledging the "Ackers factor," he reflected on his Lions legacy without sentimentality: "Coaching against the Lions feels like coming home, but I'm a Bull now.
“I’ve been on that side, I know their thought process in the sense that they are going to believe they can come and win. And rightly so, any team must believe they can come and win. They played well before the break, so they have confidence.”
We owe them after last season's loss, 21-17, in Johannesburg. This is revenge with respect; they'll come firing, but Loftus is our fortress."
"Derbies aren't won on paper; they're won in the trenches. Our boys know the history, and it is time to write a new chapter."
Looking ahead, Ackermann views the match as pivotal for playoff contention: "We're third in the SA shield but need consistency. A win here gets us momentum before the Sharks and Stormers."