Springbok utility back Damian Willemse said the Springboks were mentally preparing for a gruelling Test against Italy at the Allianz Stadium in Turin on Saturday at 14:40 (SA Time), and had no doubt that the hosts’ victory over Australia last weekend would psyche them up even more going into the match.
“Italy has really built their team all around,” said Willemse.
“They defend and attack well, and they have great players who can pull strings for them, so it’s going to be a big challenge, especially in the air. Set-piece-wise, they are a good mauling team and can take it up front as well, and their wings can get up high, so they have a good team throughout.”
With Italy still languishing in the excitement of defeating Australia 26-19 last weekend, Willemse added: “It’s going to be a super contest and they’ll definitely bring it to us. They are on a high after their win last week and rightfully so. They’ve been playing very good rugby, as we saw in July when they came to SA.
“We managed to get the win in the first game in Pretoria and then in Gqeberha, but I’ve also played for the DHL Stormers in Italy against Zebre Parma and Benetton, and they have good players who have made that step-up. They are also well coached, so it’s going to be a huge battle on the field, and we are looking forward to it.”
Willemse said he is looking forward to playing at a new venue, the Allianz Stadium, which is the home of the football club Juventus, and said it would make it a memorable occasion.
“I’m a big football fan and even though I support Arsenal, it’s going to be an incredible atmosphere to play at the stadium, and I’m sure it will be the first time many of the players play there,” said Willemse. “But the most important thing for us is to get our details right this week and enjoy Saturday.”