The Springboks gave the over 40,000 spectators a show to remember for a long time as they dismantled Italy 45-0 at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium, reaffirming the earlier message from Springboks captain Salmaan Moerat at a media conference, “We need to fight fire with fire.”
Among the spectators was a long-time Springboks supporter from King William’s Town, Areli Kockjeu (92), who saw the Springboks play in person for the first time. After the game, he said he was very impressed with the energy displayed by all supporters. Kockjeu, who lives alone in a retirement village, loves spending time with his family. His son, Russell Kockjeu, said, “At 92, my father still has not lost his love for life. He loves doing things and is always ready to have a good time.”
He added, “When we arrived, we needed to look for our seats. My father was visibly excited to be there. While my wife and I looked for our seats, my father said that he wanted to go and see the field. He was active the whole time, cheering on the Boks and participating in the Mexican wave, which is impressive for a 92-year-old.”
Areli said, “It was so nice to see how sports bring people together, no matter their background. Given the opportunity, I would definitely come to watch the Boks live again.”
Russell commented on the atmosphere at the game: “I have been to a Springboks game before, but the atmosphere at the Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium and how the crowd got behind the team was unlike anything I have ever seen. I think this is because they don’t get as many international games compared to other places. I am at a loss for words trying to describe the atmosphere – it was just electric.”
Areli added, “I have never been to a game, so this being my first experience of a Springbok game at this stadium, with these people, exceeded all my expectations. From the fireworks to the quality of the sound, the singing of the national anthem – it was an all-round great experience.”
Other supporters’ experience:
Khanyisile Gayika said, “I had an unforgettable experience at the Springboks game. Watching my brother Booshle G perform in his hometown was a full-circle moment. Seeing Siya Kolisi live, fresh from their World Cup win, added to the electric atmosphere. It was an honour to witness such rugby greatness.”
Dumisa Mahomana said, “If Gqeberha doesn’t host international rugby again, then I don’t know what will convince them. The turnout, the spirit and atmosphere, the constant Mexican wave – the crowd was into all of it. We cheered even during the passes as the team was charging for the try line from the halfway line. Definitely an experience of a lifetime.”
Ambesa Daniels said, “I’m a Boks supporter because I support my country, not because I understand the sport. So for me, what made the day special was how well organised it was. The signage visibility to help navigate to our seats and the visibility of ‘ask me’ people (who assisted wherever they could) was great. The placement of the beer garden, the placement of the stalls around the stadium so that you didn’t have to walk far or stand in long queues, the half-time show where Belinda Davids performed, the production value – how everything was well-timed and flowed seamlessly was incredible to witness in Gqeberha.”
Thabile Dyeli said, “It was such an amazing experience seeing our national team play in Gqeberha. The organisation of the event needs to be mentioned as well – how smoothly everything went. Personally, I had an incredible time and had goosebumps throughout the game. The rugby was great, but it was also great to see an old friend I went to high school with, Booshle G, perform live for the first time. The people sitting next to us had no problem with how passionate we were about the game, as they understood the love we had for the Springboks.”
Head coach Rassie Erasmus said at the post-match conference, “We all enjoyed our time in Gqeberha. Gqeberha is a place where we would love to see rugby do well, as we learnt our rugby here. This crowd – I know they missed international rugby, and they showed that with their support. There was not a single ‘boo’; they cheered all of us. Even Willie (le Roux), who is not from here, got such a warm welcome, as well as the debutants.” A sentiment with which le Roux concurred.
