Victor Matfield has highlighted how the Australian team's prowess in the aerial battle was a pivotal factor in their recent victory over the Springboks, a skillset that similarly troubled the All Blacks in the Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry series. As the Bledisloe Cup approaches, Matfield signals a critical area of focus for New Zealand.
The Wallabies are coming into their first Bledisloe Cup match at Eden Park buoyed by a significant win, beating the Springboks 42-38. This result ended the Springboks' impressive run of three consecutive victories against the All Blacks in Cape Town, Soweto, and Baltimore during the inaugural RGR series.
Matfield pointed out on the Rugby Rivals podcast that South Africa's edge in crucial moments allowed them to surmount New Zealand challenges. He credited the veteran players' ability to make pivotal decisions under pressure as a key to their success. "There was a lot of talk about the big moments that they lost against South Africa. I mean, all of those Test matches were really competitive; they could have gone either way," Matfield reflected.
"But you talked about the South African team; there are a lot of very senior team guys that make the right decisions under pressure, and that’s something that maybe New Zealand just lacked. In the big moments, they didn’t make the right decisions, but I think there are a few guys coming back into the squad."
Richie Mo’unga, returning to fly-half after a substantial hiatus post-2023 World Cup, is seen as a key figure in revitalizing the All Blacks' strategic game. "The Japanese league is not quite at the same level as Test match rugby. So it will take him time just to get back into it, and it’s a great opportunity," Matfield noted regarding Mo’unga's adjustment back to international play.
Additionally, the return of Scott Barrett and Shannon Frizell is anticipated to bring much-needed physicality and skill back to the team. Matfield particularly praised Barrett's capabilities, despite the pressures of leadership, and highlighted Frizell's powerful gameplay in Japan, predicting a significant impact upon their return.
However, it was the Australians' air superiority that caught Matfield's eye, stressing an area where the All Blacks have consistently struggled. Joseph Sua’ali’i, who moved from centre to wing, showcased exceptional aerial skills that contributed to their win against South Africa. This performance could spell a strategic challenge for the All Blacks in the upcoming match, especially with potential adjustments in the Wallabies' lineup due to player availability.
Jeff Wilson also chimed in on the conversation, hinting at the nervous anticipation surrounding the All Blacks' camp facing a confident Wallabies team. Matfield echoed these sentiments, focusing on the physical and aerial challenges that the All Blacks need to overcome. "Under the high ball, they will be tested. It will be interesting to see if Suaalii is going to stay on the wing or if they will move him to that 13 jersey. So I think physically you will be tested, and I mean that aerial battle is so important in the modern game."
As the teams gear up for the clash at Eden Park, the strategies and player performances discussed by Matfield will be crucial in determining whether the All Blacks can address their recent shortcomings against a surging Australian side.
