YORK, ENGLAND – The Springbok Women achieved a historic milestone on Sunday, defeating Italy 29-24 in York to secure their first-ever qualification for the Women’s Rugby World Cup quarter-finals and break into the world’s top ten rugby rankings for the first time.
The hard-fought victory marked South Africa’s first win over Italy in four attempts and represents a watershed moment for women’s rugby in the country. The triumph ensures the Springboks will advance to the play-off stages of the tournament for the first time in their history.
Tactical masterclass pays dividends
Head coach Swys de Bruin praised his team’s resilience after Italy mounted a determined comeback, twice drawing level after South Africa had established a commanding 17-5 lead.
“I am so proud of everyone, this was really a team effort,” said De Bruin. “We had a plan on how to beat Italy and credit to my coaches, as it worked to a tee. Our first phase helped us to score some tries, while we also outplayed them in the backs with some delightful tries.”
The coach emphasised that Italy’s Six Nations experience was evident as they fought back, but his team’s desire ultimately proved decisive. “We improved on every positive statistic out there and we are only two rounds into this tournament,” he added.
Captain’s farewell tour reaches new heights
Team captain Nolusindiso Booi, competing in her fourth Rugby World Cup and final tournament at international level, was emotional about the achievement.
“The performance was magic, we never stopped fighting, knowing what was at stake,” said Booi. “This win was for all who came before us, those who paved the way. Look at where we started and look where we are now – in the top ten of the world game.”
For Booi personally, the victory holds special significance as she prepares to retire from international rugby. “I will not play rugby again at this level after this tournament and to now have won two pool games in a row and qualify for the quarter-finals is just such a humble feeling of gratitude,” she reflected.
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The victory not only secured South Africa’s advancement but also elevated them into the World Rugby rankings’ top ten for the first time – a goal that had been driving the team throughout the tournament.
“We knew why we were playing,” Booi explained. “The support today out here in York was massive and certainly pushed us to stay on the top of our game. There were just too many people that would have been disappointed if we did not make history today.”
What’s next
The Springbok Women will return to Northampton on Monday, where they previously defeated Brazil in their pool opener, to prepare for their crucial group phase encounter against France – the other unbeaten team in their pool.
De Bruin concluded with gratitude for the support system that made this historic achievement possible: “This performance justifies the belief SA Rugby had in us. It is such a relief and one can only thank God that it worked as planned.”
The quarter-final berth represents not just a sporting achievement, but a significant step forward for women’s rugby in South Africa, promising to inspire a new generation of players to follow in the footsteps of these trailblazing Springboks.
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