Round 5 of the Rugby Championship brings two blockbuster clashes as New Zealand host Australia in a Bledisloe Cup showdown at Eden Park, while South Africa welcome Argentina fresh off their demolition of the All Blacks. With the Wallabies chasing a rare win in Auckland and the Springboks looking to keep momentum at home, we break down the best bets and predictions for both fixtures.
ALSO READ: Springboks Standouts: Willemse & Co Shine in 43–10 Win Over All Blacks.
New Zealand vs Australia
New Zealand have made several changes following their record loss to South Africa, with Scott Barrett ruled out and Ardie Savea stepping in as captain. Veterans Codie Taylor and Patrick Tuipulotu return, and Cameron Roigard replaces Noah Hotham at scrumhalf.
Meanwhile, Australia will start James O’Connor at fly-half, bringing in a fresh look after Tane Edmed’s shaky debut. The match doubles as a Bledisloe Cup showdown, and Australia, leading the tournament standings, could end the All Blacks’ hopes with a bonus-point win. But Eden Park remains a fortress for NZ, and Australia haven’t won there since 1986.
Prediction: New Zealand to win at 1.09.
Best Bets: Australia +14.5 at 1.90.
South Africa vs Argentina
South Africa have kept faith with the squad that dismantled New Zealand, reintroducing Damian de Allende and Eben Etzebeth to strengthen the midfield and the pack. Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus has also opted for continuity, indicating confidence in cohesion over wholesale changes. Argentina, on the other hand, pose a unique challenge. They’ve been unpredictable, capable of moments of brilliance, but their forwards, especially the scrum, remain vulnerabilities that the Boks may exploit.
Prediction: South Africa to win at 1.09.
Best Bets: Under 55.5 total points at 1.80.
