10 November 2026
The inaugural Nations Championship is reaching a boiling point as the pool stages build to a dramatic conclusion. The Springboks and the All Blacks lead the Southern Hemisphere on 20 points each, with South Africa holding a commanding 67-point advantage. In the Northern Hemisphere, France leads on 17 points, narrowly ahead of England and Ireland, who both sit on 15 points.
The upcoming clash between France and the Springboks stands as the biggest match of the tournament so far. With England and Ireland facing heavily favoured fixtures, a victory against the Springboks is essential to stop France from slipping to third. However, the margin for error is non-existent for the South Africans.
The All Blacks face Wales next before meeting England in a blockbuster final pool clash in two weeks' time. This critical stretch will allow New Zealand to heavily target the Springboks' points-difference advantage. Should the Springboks slip up against Les Bleus, they face a gruelling path against Ireland, positioning the All Blacks as distinct favourites to secure the final spot.
