Africa’s flagbearers for the 2027 Rugby World Cup now know the road that awaits them after World Rugby released the full tournament match schedule on 1 February 2026.
Defending champions South Africa and returning contenders Zimbabwe have both discovered their pool-stage opponents and match dates, setting the stage for what promises to be a gripping campaign in Australia.
South Africa Begin Title Defence in Pool B
The Springboks, reigning world champions, will launch their title defence from Pool B.
South Africa open their campaign against Italy on Sunday 3 October 2027. A week later, on Sunday 10 October, they face Georgia in what is expected to be a bruising contest up front. The Boks will conclude their pool fixtures against Romania on Sunday 17 October.
With three European opponents in their group, the Springboks will be heavy favourites to progress, but the physical nature of all three sides ensures there will be no room for complacency.
Zimbabwe Return to the Global Stage
For Zimbabwe, 2027 marks a historic return to rugby’s biggest stage. The Sables will feature at the Rugby World Cup for the first time since their appearances in 1987 and 1991.
Drawn in Pool F, Zimbabwe face a daunting but exciting assignment. They begin their campaign against Wales on Saturday 2 October before taking on England on Friday 8 October in what will be one of the most anticipated fixtures for the African side.
They wrap up their pool stage against Tonga on Friday 16 October, a clash that could prove decisive in determining standings within the group.
The schedule announcement officially kickstarts the countdown to 2027, with African fans now able to mark their calendars and begin plotting what they hope will be memorable campaigns for both the Springboks and the Sables.
View the full Rugby World Cup 2027 match schedule here:
https://www.rugbyworldcup.com/2027/en/matches
English