The former Toyota Cheetahs loose-forward, Sergio Moreira, could be making his international debut on Saturday when the Springboks tackle Portugal in Bloemfontein.

The 24-year-old is back in Bloemfontein, but he is with the Portuguese team for the historic Test against the World Champions.

Moreira hails from Krugersdorp in Gauteng and added Hoërskool Noordheuwel before heading to Bloemfontein where he played in a handful of games in 2022, included against the Junior Springboks.

He has only been in the Portuguese camp for a few days after receiving a last-minute call to link up with the Os Lobos.

Moreira, who plays his rugby in Japan these days, told OFM Sport that this Test is a big deal for Portugal.

“It's quite interesting going through emotions over here and it's just something very new for me,” said Moreira.

Yeah, I'm obviously excited to see what this brings for me and yeah, just happy to be here.

Moreira added that five-years ago he was first approached about possibly playing for Portugal, but only now has this materialised under the guidance of the new coach, Simon Mannix.

“In 2019, the Portuguese coach just told me he wants me there, but there was nothing solid on the table. A few weeks ago, Simon Mannix just rang me and he just spoke to me for a few minutes, and I was like, okay, let's go check it out.”

Moreira has only been with the team since Sunday and met the players at the airport in Johannesburg. He said from his engagement thus far, he realised that playing against the Springboks is a big deal for his new teammates.

“Oh, they can't wait, they're so excited. This is the biggest game of their lives. Some of the guys have played 60-caps but never played against the Springboks. It's going to be massive this weekend.”

Regarding his possibility of playing for another country because with the wealth of talent in South Africa, Moreira said it’s just not possible for all of these players to be accommodated by the Springboks, and they have to use their opportunities abroad if it arises.

“Yeah, it's one of those things. South Africa has so much talent and what do you do with the guys that don't make it? A lot just don’t get seen, so we just take an opportunity somewhere else, you know, and hope for the best. “

Saturday’s Test between the Springboks and Portugal at the Toyota Stadium kicks off at 17:00.

Morgan Piek OFM Sport