Wallabies look to Fremantle magic for Springboks upset

The Wallabies are set to face a stern test against reigning world champions South Africa at Perth Stadium on Sunday, with the visitors riding high on confidence after a 3-1 series win over New Zealand.

Perth-born Carlo Tizzano is hoping to draw inspiration from Fremantle's AFL grand final appearance on Saturday, with the Dockers set to take on Brisbane at the MCG.

"We're behind Freo all the way and hopefully they get a good win," Tizzano said. "The atmosphere here is crazy. You saw what Fremantle was like after their preliminary final win, and what a game that was."

Tizzano added, "They're the minor premiers, so they've got a lot of momentum, and hopefully they win the grand final for the first time ever, and then we get the win on the weekend as well."

The Wallabies have been on a five-match unbeaten run, with three wins and a draw under new coach Les Kiss. However, they face a tough challenge against the Springboks, who beat Australia 30-12 in their last visit to Perth in 2024.

Tizzano, who was playing just his second Test in that match, hopes the team can produce something special to take down South Africa. The Wallabies have included uncapped Western Force recruit Harry McLaughlin-Phillips in the 34-man squad, and the return of star back Jordan Petaia, who hasn't played for the Wallabies since the 2023 World Cup.

The Springboks arrive in Perth without Pieter-Steph du Toit and Damian de Allende, who were released from the squad to spend more time with family.