Damian Willemse says the Springboks are treating Saturday's Nations Championship clash against Italy in Turin as a must-win, with South Africa's place in the inaugural final dependent on maintaining their unbeaten record in the Northern Series European leg.
The Boks top the Southern Hemisphere standings on points difference over the All Blacks, with both sides having won three matches and three remaining. Only one will reach the final, making Saturday's kickoff at Estadio Camilo Cano (1.40pm SA time) critical.
"If we lose this week, we're out of the race to try and be in the final," Willemse said, adding that the team's focus remains squarely on Italy rather than the points table. "If we are in a position to go for a bonus point, we'll obviously look to do that. But the main thing for us is just to perform very well and win the game."
Willemse acknowledged Italy's threat despite their injury disruptions, pointing to last year's Turin meeting as a reminder of their capability. The Boks won that fixture 32-14, with Willemse taking player of the match honours.
"They are a strong side, very well-coached and come up with good plans," he said. "We've got to stay dialled in and make sure we don't lose focus on what's ahead."
The novelty of the Nations Championship, rather than a standard end-of-year tour, is adding an extra edge to the squad's preparation, according to Willemse. "There's a cup on the line. Our approach to any tournament or cup is to take it seriously."