Junior Springbok attack coach Melusi Mthethwa has highlighted the squad's belief and accuracy as the key factors behind their 53-37 semi-final victory over England at the Junior World Championship, after the SA U20s overturned an eight-point half-time deficit to book a final date with France.
Trailing 20-12 at the break after England dominated the opening exchanges, the Junior Boks produced a commanding second-half display to seal one of the more emphatic comeback victories of the tournament.
"We knew the first half was going to be very, very tough," said Mthethwa. "They had a plan and they tried to stop us, and they did that very well. Credit to the boys – they handled that well."
The coaching staff's half-time message focused on precision rather than panic. "We identified a few opportunities we needed to take," Mthethwa said. "In the second half we were able to take control and those opportunities, which was great."
Wing Khuthadzo Rasivhaga was the standout performer, crossing three times as South Africa converted their second-half dominance into points. Rasivhaga credited the forward pack for laying the foundation. "The forwards did a fantastic job. They gave us good ball and created the platform for us to play."
Rasivhaga said England's aggressive start had been anticipated. "We spoke about it during the week and we knew England were going to come hard in that first 40 minutes. We had to contain them and stay in the fight, kept backing ourselves and stayed patient."
The squad took a training-free day on Tuesday, participating in a World Rugby coaching clinic with local club children, before resuming preparations on Wednesday ahead of Saturday's final against France.