Tera Mtembu backs the Sharks to beat the All Blacks
Former Sharks captain Tera Mtembu believes the Sharks can push the All Blacks all the way, and he has even predicted a dramatic 40-38 win at Hollywoodbets Kings Park.
Mtembu joined Darren Maule, Sky Tshabalala and Carmen Reddy on East Coast Breakfast ahead of the historic clash, sharing his insight on what the Sharks need to get right, what supporters can expect and why the occasion matters so much.
The Sharks are taking on the All Blacks at Hollywoodbets Kings Park, with the fixture creating huge excitement and plenty of debate around what kind of contest fans could see.
What do the Sharks need to do against the All Blacks?
According to Mtembu, both teams have plenty to play for.
He pointed out that a number of the All Blacks players are effectively competing for places ahead of the first Test, while several Sharks players are also trying to establish themselves ahead of the new URC season.
For Mtembu, the most important thing for the Sharks is not only the result, but developing a clear identity in the way they want to play this season.
If that comes together, he believes the score could stay close.
Why this Sharks vs All Blacks game matters
Mtembu also encouraged fans to get to Hollywoodbets Kings Park and make the most of what he described as a rare occasion.
Having recently experienced the atmosphere around an All Blacks fixture in Cape Town, he said the build-up felt like a Test match, with strong support, lights and a big-match atmosphere.
His message to Durban supporters was simple: make the most of it.
Some of the players involved may never get another opportunity to face the haka or play against New Zealand, making the night a particularly significant one for both players and fans.
Mtembu also stressed how important crowd support is to players.
He said supporters are a huge part of who the Sharks play for and that packed stands can also help inspire younger rugby fans.
He noted that opportunities like this do not come around often, with the previous comparable occasion dating back decades.
Tera Mtembu's Sharks vs All Blacks score prediction
So, can the Sharks actually win?
Mtembu thinks so.
His prediction?
Sharks 40, All Blacks 38.
It is a bold call, but if the Sharks can execute their game plan and feed off the energy inside Hollywoodbets Kings Park, East Coast rugby fans could be in for a memorable night.
Listen to the full conversation with Tera Mtembu on East Coast Breakfast as he previews the Sharks vs All Blacks clash, talks about life after rugby and shares what makes a big occasion like this so special.
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