All Blacks Take the Early Series Lead
The opening Test changed the tone of the tour. South Africa entered as favourites and led 13-12 at half-time, but New Zealand absorbed heavy scrum pressure and eventually outscored the hosts by five tries to one.
Fabian Holland’s chargedown try shifted the match after the Springboks failed to score from several attacking scrums. Will Jordan crossed twice, while New Zealand won 14 turnovers and pulled away during the final quarter.
FNB Stadium gives South Africa another high-altitude Johannesburg venue and a huge home crowd. Their scrum provides a clear route into the contest, but they must convert pressure into points and limit the errors that fuel New Zealand’s counter-attack.
The second Test remains the main unknown. A strong Springbok response would shorten their price, while another New Zealand victory could make the All Blacks favourites for the third meeting.
Suggested Bets and Predicted Odds
Springboks to win: predicted odds of 1.55 to 1.70
South Africa remain reasonable narrow favourites at home despite the opening defeat. Their scrum caused New Zealand serious problems, and Rassie Erasmus has the depth to adjust his combinations as the series develops.
This is the safer result bet if the Springboks improve their handling and finishing. It becomes less attractive if their price falls below about 1.50 after the Cape Town Test.
All Blacks +5.5 handicap: predicted odds of 1.85 to 1.95
The handicap may provide the better value. New Zealand have already won at Ellis Park and shown that they can remain composed when South Africa control the scrum and territory.
A +5.5 bet wins if the All Blacks lose by five points or fewer, as well as if they win. The selection is appealing at +5.5 or higher, but considerably weaker if the line drops towards +2.5.
Under 49.5 total points: predicted odds of 1.85 to 1.95
The first Test produced exactly 49 points, boosted by two late New Zealand tries after South Africa received yellow cards. Much of the match was built around scrums, penalties, territory and defensive pressure.
A similar pattern could return at FNB Stadium, particularly if the series position encourages conservative decisions in a close second half. The under is most attractive around 49.5 and becomes riskier if the line falls towards 44.5.
South African punters can compare these markets across the quality betting sites listed on our site. A difference of two or three points in the handicap or total can materially affect the value.
Match Prediction: Springboks to Win 25-22
New Zealand’s speed after turnovers and clinical finishing make them dangerous for the full 80 minutes. South Africa should still improve as the series develops, and their scrum and home advantage give them a slight edge at FNB Stadium.
The Springboks are predicted to win a tight contest, with New Zealand remaining close enough to cover a moderate handicap and the total staying below 50 points.
- Predicted score Springboks 25-22 All Blacks
- Best result bet Springboks to win at predicted odds of 1.55 to 1.70
- Preferred value bet All Blacks +5.5 at predicted odds of 1.85 to 1.95
- Total-points selection Under 49.5 at predicted odds of 1.85 to 1.95
Odds are estimates and may change after the second Test or team announcements. Gambling is only available to people aged 18 or older. Never bet more than you can afford to lose.





