South Africa produced another impressive comeback to defeat New Zealand 29-24 in a thrilling third Test in Soweto, moving 2-1 ahead in the four match Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry series. The Springboks overcame a spirited All Blacks performance before taking control in the final quarter to secure another important victory.
The match began at a furious pace, with both sides showing attacking ambition and refusing to give the other any room to settle. New Zealand’s ability to move the ball quickly caused problems for the South African defence, while the Springboks relied on their physicality and strength at set pieces. The teams went into half-time level at 12-12 after an intense opening 40 minutes.
New Zealand looked capable of taking control after the break when Will Jordan chased his own kick and scored to put the All Blacks 17-12 ahead in the 55th minute. However, South Africa responded almost immediately. Jesse Kriel powered through the New Zealand defence to score the try that shifted the momentum back towards the hosts.
From there, the Springboks began to impose their physical game. Malcolm Marx crossed after a powerful rolling maul, giving South Africa valuable breathing room. Sacha Feinberg Mngomezulu then added a penalty as the home side strengthened its position heading into the closing stages.
The All Blacks refused to give up and managed to score a late try through Samisoni Taukei’aho, but it was not enough to deny South Africa. The Springboks held on for a 29-24 victory, with both teams finishing the contest with four tries.
The victory also marked another milestone for South African captain Siya Kolisi, who recorded his 55th Test victory as Springboks captain, making him the most successful captain in the team’s history.
The result leaves South Africa with a 2-1 series advantage heading into the fourth and final Test in Baltimore next weekend. New Zealand will now have to win the final match to draw the series, while the Springboks will look to finish the rivalry series with another victory.
South Africa’s latest performance once again highlighted the qualities that have made them one of the world’s leading rugby sides, physical strength, resilience under pressure and the ability to finish matches strongly. The All Blacks showed plenty of attacking threat, but the Springboks’ power and composure in the decisive stages ultimately proved the difference.
