The Springboks have claimed a hard-earned 18-12 victory over the All Blacks in Cape Town, marking their fourth consecutive win over their rivals — something they haven’t achieved since 1949. The win moves South Africa within reach of their first Rugby Championship title since 2019
A Fierce Battle at Newlands
The All Blacks started on the front foot, taking a 9-3 lead into the break, all courtesy of Damian McKenzie's accurate boot. The first half was characterised by a series of penalties and handling errors from both sides. The New Zealanders capitalised on South Africa's shaky start, especially in the line outs, with the Boks losing three on their own throw in the opening ten minutes
The Springboks, however, regrouped and showed their mettle in the second half. Captain Siya Kolisi, battling through a broken nose, led from the front and scored the opening try after a period of sustained pressure. Handré Pollard converted, putting South Africa ahead for the first time and shifting the momentum in favour of the home side.
Wallace Sititi, making his first Test start on his 22nd birthday, was a standout performer for the All Blacks. The young flanker was heavily involved in both attack and defence, showing his promise with a series of impactful tackles and breaks that kept the Springboks on their toes. Sititi's work rate was impressive, and he combined well with Codie Taylor to put pressure on the Springbok forwards. Even as the game became scrappy with penalties and mistakes, Sititi remained a key figure for New Zealand throughout the match
Key Moments That Turned the Game
While South Africa had taken the lead, the game remained finely poised. The All Blacks had opportunities to claw back, especially when fullback Willie le Roux was sent to the sin bin. However, Damian McKenzie, usually so dependable, missed two crucial penalties — one striking the post and another going wide from a comfortable distance
As the game entered its closing stages, discipline became the focal point. All Blacks prop Tyrel Lomax was yellow-carded with just minutes remaining for an illegal challenge on Cheslin Kolbe. The Springboks decided to forgo a kick at goal and instead went for the corner. From the ensuing lineout, they executed a well-driven maul, and Malcolm Marx crashed over to secure the game. This vital try gave the Boks an 18-12 lead that they held onto until the final whistle
A Historic Milestone for the Springboks
This victory extends South Africa's winning streak against New Zealand to four matches, a feat that underscores their dominance this season. It also brings them tantalisingly close to the Rugby Championship title, remaining unbeaten after four rounds. The win not only saw them claim the Freedom Cup but also keeps their sights firmly set on more silverware
For New Zealand, the loss is a significant blow. It marks their third defeat in this year’s competition, putting them out of contention for the title. They showed plenty of grit, but crucial moments of ill-discipline and missed chances proved costly. The All Blacks will now have to regroup and focus on salvaging some pride when they face Australia in their next outing
The Springboks will take on Argentina next, knowing that a victory will secure the Rugby Championship title. With their confidence high and form looking formidable, they have every reason to believe they can go all the way. Meanwhile, the All Blacks must find a way to bounce back against the Wallabies, aiming to finish their campaign on a positive note.
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