Van der Merwe braces for Argentina-style challenge as Boks gear up for Turin Test

Springbok wing Edwill van der Merwe is bracing for a high-tempo, unpredictable clash when South Africa face Italy in Turin on Saturday, describing the Italians as a team whose attacking structure and flair mirror that of Argentina – no doubt due to coach Gonzalo Quesada’s influence.

The Italians have impressed this season with a blend of power and panache, qualities that were in evidence in their shock come-from-behind 26-19 victory over Australia at the weekend.

According to Van der Merwe, the Boks are preparing for a contest that will demand defensive organisation and the typical Springbok physical edge.

“They are big, physical guys so we’re expecting a physical contest, which is what we pride ourselves on as well as South Africans,” said Van der Merwe.

“They were very good on the weekend. Also, they have players who can create moments of magic from the back, so it will be a big challenge.”

Springbok attack coach Tony Brown noted earlier in the week that Italy’s playing patterns resemble Argentina’s – with exciting backs who like to run the ball. It is an observation Van der Merwe echoed.

“They have players who can create moments of magic from the back, so it will be a very big challenge on the weekend,” he warned.

The balance between respecting Italy’s attacking flair and asserting South Africa’s own power game will be central to the Boks’ plan in Turin.

“At the breakdown, they put a lot of emphasis on slowing the ball down or going for steals, so that will be a key focus for us. Whatever they throw at us, we want to not just match it but overpower them,” Van der Merwe said.

The setting for Saturday’s match – the Allianz Stadium, home of Juventus FC – will add to the spectacle, even if Van der Merwe admits he is not much of a football follower.

“I’m not a big football fan but I guess it will still be a momentous occasion,” he said. “Italian fans are very passionate – they get behind their team – so I’m sure it will be a great atmosphere to play there.”

For Van der Merwe, the match also represents another hard-earned opportunity to build on his Test career. Having waited patiently behind established stars like Kurt-Lee Arendse and Cheslin Kolbe, he has stayed grounded in the belief that timing and readiness are everything.

“My life’s motto is it’s a marathon, not a sprint,” he reflected.

“I firmly believe what’s meant for me won’t miss me. The biggest thing for me is to stay prepared, to stay ready whenever the call comes, and to greet the opportunity with both hands.”

The Sharks speedster, who has shown a sharp eye for the try line in his limited Test appearances, was quick to share credit for his finishing ability.

“Credit to the playmakers in the team – those guys that put you into space,” he said.

“As a winger there’s not much more that you want than guys putting you into space. Hopefully, when the opportunity comes, it will be the same sequence and I can add more tries to my tally.”

While competition for wing spots in the Springbok squad remains fierce, Van der Merwe sees it as a source of inspiration rather than pressure.

“It’s incredible. Everyone in the system buys in to helping one another, so it’s been amazing for me to learn from guys like Kurt-Lee and Cheslin,” he said. “Hopefully, when I get the opportunity, I can grab it.”

With Ireland looming next week, Van der Merwe said the focus remains firmly on Italy, but acknowledged that a strong performance in Turin would provide valuable momentum heading into that marquee clash.