Former All Blacks fullback Mils Muliaina has backed the Springboks to “topple” tournament hosts France in the World Cup quarter-final clash on Sunday.
France captain Antoine Dupont is set to make his comeback in Sunday’s quarter-final against the Boks in Paris.
Dupont’s presence, following a fractured cheekbone suffered against Namibia in September, will provide the hosts with a significant lift as they look to continue their quest to lift the Webb Ellis Cup on home soil.
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However, writing for Stuff.co.nz, former All Blacks star Muliaina shared his concern over Dupont being targeted by the big Bok pack.
“France will be boosted by having Antoine Dupont back. It’s amazing that he’s been able to get the sign-off after fracturing his cheek a few weeks ago,” wrote the All Blacks centurion.
“Dupont is the best player in the world and I understand why France will want to play him. They won’t want to die wondering.
“But he’s had a significant injury and plays in a critical position. The Boks are not going to shy away from running at Dupont around the edges and touching him up once he’s passed the ball. Will he still be able to make his tackles against a bruising Boks pack?
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“Others have stepped up while Dupont has been out, especially Mathieu Jalibert and Thomas Ramos and Grégory Alldritt up front.
“But South Africa know how to win knockout football. I get the sense they might topple the home side.”
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