Salmaan Moerat will lead the Springboks as the 66th captain against Portugal, succeeding Siya Kolisi, with support and guidance from the former captain. Portugal faces a tough challenge against the reigning world champions, South Africa, with a clear gap in class between the two teams. The match marks the first-ever encounter between South Africa and Portugal, with the Springboks introducing seven debutants in a bid to assess new talent before the Rugby Championship. Despite recent setbacks, South Africa retains its top spot in the World Rugby Rankings ahead of the clash with Portugal in Bloemfontein.