Libbok determined to prove a point in Irish World Cup blockbuster

South Africa's under pressure flyhalf Manie Libbok said he has put "a lot of work" into his kicking at goal ahead of the blockbuster Rugby World Cup pool match between the defending champions and world-ranked number one Ireland.

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The 26-year-old was named man of the match in the Springboks' opening 18-3 victory over Scotland but concerns were raised about the accuracy of his kicking at goal.

Libbok missed two penalties and a conversion which, in a game as tight as Saturday's contest at the Stade de France is expected to be, could prove costly.

The Springbok management may have heaped pressure on Libbok in calling up 2019 World Cup-winning playmaker Handre Pollard, as a replacement for injured hooker Malcolm Marx.

However, Libbok, whose open play is superior to Pollard's, seemed relaxed when he met with the media on Tuesday.

His mood chimed with the tranquillity of the Springboks hotel golf complex far from the bustle of Paris in the village of Presles.

"My whole game is going to be important, every part of it - if it is kicking for poles (posts), if it is kicking out of hand, if it is my attacking with ball in hand. Every bit of it is going to be important," said Libbok.

"I'm just working hard on my basic skills. Kicking for poles - I've put a lot of work on it to get it right."

'Awesome game'

Adding to the pressure cooker atmosphere, Libbok will be facing one of the greatest flyhalves of all time, Johnny Sexton.

Sexton, 38, has looked in fine fettle in the wins over Romania and Tonga, becoming Ireland's record Rugby World Cup points scorer in the first game and then his country's all-time highest scorer in the second one.

"Johnny is a great