Wales assistant coach Rob Howley has identified the team’s aerial game as a key factor in their World Cup opening clash with South Africa.

Wales take on the Boks on Sunday (September 11) having not beaten the defending world champions since 1999.

"We have to dominate the sky with our back three because the aerial kicking game is so crucial when we play South Africa," Howley said.

The former Wales and Lions scrum-half also pinpointed discipline and fitness as crucial areas if Wales are to triumph.

"We can expect plenty of physicality on Sunday but the fitness work we have put in this summer will have also helped our mental preparations," he said.

"Discipline, particularly in the tackle area and cutting down on unforced errors are key to us. We have to make sure we do not give silly penalties away.

"It will be a huge factor if we are able to show composure and of course we will have to take our chances."

Wales are expected to name their starting XV for the opening clash later this week.