The Springboks return to Loftus Versfeld this Saturday to face Italy in the opening Test of their mid-year tour. While Italy earned a historic win over the Boks in 2016, recent form tells a different story. South Africa have dominated, winning 16 of their last 18 matches and securing two massive victories (49-3 and 63-21) over Italy. Below is a prediction for the first Test of the two-match series.
ALSO READ: Springboks vs Italy: Four Key Players to Watch in Saturday’s Test.
Betting Preview
The Springboks made a statement in their season opener, scoring eight tries in a dominant 54-7 win over the Barbarians in Cape Town. It was an ideal tune-up, with South Africa controlling the set pieces, executing well at the maul, and showing impressive cohesion despite difficult conditions.
1.85
South Africa vs Italy
Over 63.5
total points
Odds are subject to change.
Bet Here
That warm-up clash may not have been a capped Test, but the real business begins on Saturday with the first of two Tests against Italy. The Boks last hosted the Azzurri in 2013, claiming a 44-10 win in Durban, and were emphatic 63-21 victors in their most recent meeting in Genoa in 2022.
South Africa has lost just once to Italy in 16 encounters, that surprise defeat in Florence back in 2016, and will be strong favourites to dominate again at Loftus. Italy avoided the Six Nations wooden spoon with a gutsy win over Wales and pushed Ireland close, but their heavy 73-24 loss to France highlighted the gulf that still exists at the top level.
1.85
South Africa vs Italy
Under 63.5
Total Points
Odds are subject to change.
Bet Here
They did ease past Namibia 73-6 last weekend, but with several key players absent, they’ll find the Springboks a much tougher test.
Recent Form & Stats
- Springbok dominance: 16 wins in 18 Tests, including five wins in a row.
- Head-to-head: The Boks remain unbeaten at home (7-0), with decisive wins (+40+ points) over Italy.
- Team updates: Rassie Erasmus starts veteran returnees, Damian Willemse at fullback and Handre Pollard at fly-half, while Vincent Tshituka earns his first Test cap.
Best Bets & Predictions
Prediction: Springboks to win at 1.01.
Best Bet: South Africa to win by 42 or more points at 1.90.
