Rassie Erasmus Opens Up on What Awaits Springboks Against France After Win Over Japan

• Rassie Erasmus has outlined what the Springboks should expect in their next match against France after thrashing Japan
• The Springboks' coach explained why the match would be completely different from their game against Japan
• Springboks captain Siya Kolisi also joined the conversation as he expressed his happiness with the result in London

Springboks coach Rassie Erasmus has outlined what to expect as South Africa locks horns with France in their next match, following a dominant 61–7 victory over Japan at Wembley Stadium on Saturday, November 1 2025.

The South African rugby national team headed into the end-of-year tour as the Rugby Championship winners and were widely tipped to defeat Japan in London. They delivered on expectations with a commanding performance in front of a rain-soaked crowd.

Erasmus shared his excitement at securing a positive result against the Asian side, while also singling out a Springbok star for his standout performance in the game.

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Erasmus on France clash after Japan win

Looking ahead, Erasmus acknowledged that facing France next week would be a completely different challenge, describing it as “a different kettle of fish.” He explained that playing France away from home, at the Stade de France in Paris, brings unique passion, intensity, and atmosphere, making it a far more demanding contest.

The Springbok coach expressed confidence in the team’s balance of depth, experience, and youth, but warned that the clash in Paris would be played in a “pressure cooker” environment. He recalled their narrow 29–28 win over France in the 2023 World Cup quarter-final as a reminder of how tough the contest can be.

Erasmus added that with upcoming matches against Ireland, Italy, and Wales, the team must stay grounded and focused. He admitted that the loss to New Zealand at Eden Park earlier this year had been a valuable lesson, emphasising the need for both intelligent and physical play to succeed in the coming weeks.

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After Erasmus, Springbok captain Siya Kolisi also expressed his delight with the team’s performance, highlighting the value of versatility within the squad and the incredible support they received at Wembley.

He noted that having adaptable players allows the coaches greater flexibility in selection and helps the team stay composed when dealing with injuries during matches. Kolisi, who opened the scoring with his 14th Test try, said this adaptability played a key role in their dominant victory.

He also praised the passionate crowd that turned up in large numbers despite the rain, describing their support as “special.” Kolisi said the team deeply appreciated the fans’ dedication and urged them to continue showing up for the remaining four matches on tour, as their presence and energy provide a massive boost to the players.

Kolisi reacts to Springboks' win over Japan

Briefly News earlier reported that Siya Kolisi reacted to South Africa's win over Japan at Wembley Stadium on Saturday.

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The Springboks captain scored the first try of the match and explained how difficult the game was for SA.

Proofreading by Kelly Lippke, copy editor at Briefly.co.za.

Source: Briefly News