It will be the first time South Africa and France have faced one another in the final of the prestigious global age-group tournament. South Africa booked their place in a second successive final with a superb second-half performance to overpower England in the semi-finals. 

France, meanwhile, secured their place in the decider after edging New Zealand in a thrilling contest, sealing victory with a dramatic late breakaway try.

Siphosethu Mnebelele and Lucas Andjisseramatchi. Photo: World Rugby

Foote has opted for continuity, making just three changes to the matchday 23.

Two of those come in the loose forwards, where Wasi Vyambwera starts at 8th-man, with Gert Kemp shifting to the bench to provide fresh energy later in the game. Risima Khosa earns a place at flank alongside Luke Cannon, completing a mobile and physical back row.

The powerful front row of Oliver Reid, captain Siphosethu Mnebelele and Danie Kruger remains intact after another impressive display, while Heinrich Theron and JD Hattingh continue their growing partnership in the engine room.

The Junior Boks beat New Zealand in the 2025 final to win the U20 World Championships for a second time. Photo: World Rugby

There is only one change to the backline, with Grey College old boy Alzeadon Felix taking over at fullback after Luan Giliomee’s red card in the semi-final ruled him out of the title decider.

The trusted halfback pairing of Hendré Schoeman and Yaqeen Ahmed will once again steer the side, while Ethan Adams and Markus Muller continue in midfield. Out wide, Khuthadzo Rashivago and Cheswill Jooste provide the finishing power and attacking spark.

The Junior Boks, who lifted the trophy in 2025 after defeating New Zealand in the final, now have the opportunity to become the first South African team to successfully defend the World Rugby U20 Championship title.

The hallowed U20 World Champions trophy. Photo: World Rugby

Foote believes his squad has made the most of its preparation ahead of what promises to be a stern examination against an accomplished French side. “This group has been together since the beginning of the year, and they understand the way we want to play,” Foote said. 

“We’ve used this week to sharpen our readiness and focus on the areas where we felt we could improve. The pleasing aspect of this group is their honesty and accountability. 

“The players are open with each other in their assessments, and together we’ve identified solutions and worked hard on those areas. We believe we have prepared well for what will be a massive challenge.”

Luan Giliomee misses out on the final through suspension. Photo: World Rugby

The coach also praised the unity within the squad, saying their close bond has been one of the driving forces behind another impressive campaign.

“The outstanding quality of this group is the bond they share and how much they enjoy representing South Africa. We are still reviewing our game and know we have room to keep pushing to get better.

“France are a very formidable side and fully deserve their place in the final. Their performances in the recent World Championship and the Six Nations show they understand what it takes to win knockout rugby.”

Ethan Adams. Photo: World Rugby

While fully aware of the threat posed by France, Foote insists the Junior Boks will not abandon the style that has carried them to another final. “We want to continue playing the South African way,” he said.

“That means using our physicality to create momentum, winning the gain-line battle and playing with tempo and intensity. Our set piece will be important in providing a solid platform, but we will also need to be smart and accurate, particularly on defence. 

“Our preparations have gone extremely well. The players have clarity around our game model; they have confidence in one another, and there is genuine excitement about the opportunity that lies ahead.”

The eagerly anticipated final at the Mikheil Meskhi Stadium kicks off at 18:30.

Junior Springboks - 15 Alzeadon Felix, 14 Cheswill Jooste, 13 Markus Muller, 12 Ethan Adams, 11 Khuthadzo Rasivhaga, 10 Yaqeen Ahmed, 9 Hendré Schoeman, 8 Wasi Vyambwera, 7 Luke Cannon, 6 Risima Khosa, 5 JD Hattingh, 4 Heinrich Theron, 3 Danie Kruger, 2 Siphosethu Mnebelele (captain), 1 Oliver Reid

Replacements - 16 Liam van Wyk, 17 Rambo Kubheka, 18 Luan van der Berg, 19 Jaythen Orange, 20 Thomas Beling, 21 Gert Kemp, 22 Jayden Brits, 23 Samuel Badenhorst

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek mvh