Nick Mallett believes France’s ability to control their emotions will determine whether they conquer or crumble against the Springboks in Paris.

The former Bok coach says Les Bleus are still stung by the heartbreaking World Cup quarter-final defeat to South Africa two years ago, and that emotional edge could either lift them to glory or drag them into chaos.

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“One thing is certain, France will be highly motivated to beat the Springboks,” Mallett wrote in his News24 column.

“That 29-28 defeat in 2023 was a hammer blow for Fabien Galthie’s charges, and they’ll view Saturday’s game as a stepping-stone in their quest to win a first World Cup in 2027.”

But Mallett warned that motivation alone isn’t enough – especially for a side as volatile as France.

“Teams with a Latin temperament, like France, Italy and Argentina, can produce incredible performances when they’re collectively focused,” he explained. “But if they don’t get up for a game, the difference between a motivated performance and a lackadaisical one is massive.”

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The ex-Bok boss says South Africa’s trademark consistency is what sets them apart – something France will have to match if they hope to avoid another emotional meltdown.

“When a South African or New Zealand team plays, you largely know what you’re going to get from them,” Mallett said.

“It’s different with the French. If they’ve got a reason to be upset and angry, they can really produce. But if their emotions get the better of them, individuals sometimes do silly things that are detrimental to the team.”

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Discipline, he insists, will be everything.

“They know they must be physical, but they cannot afford to be over-physical. If they don’t stay disciplined within the system, things could get quite difficult and they could end up with 14 or 13 guys on the field,” he warned.

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