South Africa vs The Barbarians Prediction & Betting Tips - Test Matches

Prediction published on 18/06/2026, 09:00  by Ita Emmanuel | Modified on 19/06/2026 at 18:47 in Rugby Predictions

Before setting out for the highly-anticipated inaugural Nations Championship in July, South Africa will look to fine-tune their squad with an exhibition clash against Barbarians at Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium on Saturday. The Springboks have swept each of their last eight matches, six of which by blowout margins. This is why we are backing them for a dominant victory in our prediction.

South Africa last tasted defeat in September 2025 against World No.2 New Zealand in the Rugby Championship. Since then, it has been been a remarkable run for the Rassie Erasmus’ team. They have won their last eight matches, including a 73–0 shutout victory against 11th-ranked Wales last time out. 

Notably, six of those victories have come by heavy margins. The four-time world champions will look to carry this terrific form into Saturday's contest, with home advantage also likely to be a major factor. 

Barbarians came out second best in their last outing against the New Zealand A, losing 33–19. That result made it five defeats in their last six matches for the team, four of which by wide margins. They drew 31–31 against South Africa in their first-ever meeting, but suffered a heavy 54–7 defeat in their most recent encounter in Cape Town.