The Springbok Women made history at the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup in England, securing back-to-back bonus-point wins to guarantee their spot in the knockout stages, Cape {town} Etc reports.
In a nail-biting encounter at York Community Stadium, South Africa edged Italy 29-24 thanks to a last-gasp try from Sinazo Mcatshulwa just six minutes from full time.
From the outset, the South Africans set the pace. Within two minutes of Libbie Janse van Rensburg’s kick-off, Aseza Hele powered over from a scrum to give the Bok Women an early lead. Italy responded immediately, testing South Africa’s defence through Alyssa D’Inca, but heroic tackles kept the visitors at bay. A tense moment arrived when Sara Tounesi was stretchered off following a chop tackle, though she later received a warm round of applause from the crowd.
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South Africa’s attack continued to threaten, with Janse van Rensburg orchestrating plays that saw Nadine Roos dot down midway through the first half. By half-time, the Springboks led 17-12, but Italy kept the pressure on, responding with tries from Vittoria Vecchini and Francesca Sgorbini to level the score early in the second half.
The second period saw both teams trading blows. Ayanda Malinga and Sizophila Solontsi scored under relentless pressure, keeping South Africa slightly ahead, but Italy refused to fold. Sara Seye’s converted try brought the Italians back into contention, setting up a dramatic finale.
It was Mcatshulwa’s decisive try in the dying minutes that sealed the historic victory, sending the 6 045-strong crowd into raptures and etching a memorable chapter in Springbok Women’s rugby history. Coach Swys de Bruin praised his team’s resilience, noting the squad’s unwavering belief and commitment throughout a rollercoaster match.
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Picture: Stu Forster / Gallo Images
