On Saturday at the Stade de France, the Springboks notched an impressive 32-17 win over France, the perfect setting to honour captain Siya Kolisi as he reached his 100th Test cap. Battling back from behind and playing with 14 men following a red card, the world champions reminded the rugby world why they remain a benchmark of resilience and excellence.
ALSO READ: Siya Kolisi Reaches 100 Tests: The Making of South Africa’s Greatest Captain.
Response Under Pressure
France appeared to have the edge early, leading 14-13 at halftime and feeling poised for momentum in front of their passionate crowd. However, a red card to South Africa’s Lood de Jager for a dangerous tackle changed the dynamic. The Springboks responded not with panic, but with control: outscoring France 19-3 in the second half despite being a man down.
Kolisi’s leadership shone through; his calm, team-first attitude provided the anchor, even as coach Rassie Erasmus opted to substitute him after the red card to protect and restructure the pack.
Key Performers & Strategy
- The forwards set the tone: from maul dominance to relentless carries, the pack out-muscled their hosts in decisive moments.
- Moments of magic came from the bench: Andre Esterhuizen powered over for a late try, followed by Grant Williams and Sacha Feinberg‑Mngomezulu weaving in from the back to seal the victory.
- France had pockets of brilliance, but they couldn’t sustain tempo nor match the Boks’ breakdown threat, the same vulnerabilities exposed in their 2023 World Cup quarter-final loss.
- Kolisi’s 100th-cap milestone added extra stakes, yet the captain refused special treatment: “We put the team first. Then it’s all good.” he said.
What It Means Going Forward
This win is more than just a milestone celebration; it sends a message. In a hostile environment, without a full roster and down a man, the Springboks still turned the tables. It reinforces their status as the world’s number-one team and shows their experience in high-pressure environments remains unmatched. They square off against Italy this Saturday in Turin. The Boks are favourites at 1.03 to win.
