The FNB Stadium erupted in celebration on Saturday night as the Springboks edged the All Blacks 29-24 in a pulsating third Test in Johannesburg, moving to the brink of claiming the Greatest Rivalry Series trophy.
More than 80,000 supporters packed the iconic venue in Soweto, witnessing their heroes finally seize control of the series after a dramatic arm-wrestle that swung on crucial moments and unrelenting physicality.
With the Boks now holding an unassailable 2-1 lead, they cannot lose the series , but captain Siya Kolisi and his troops are determined to complete the job in style when the final Test kicks off in Baltimore next Saturday.
Should New Zealand claim victory in America, the series will end 2-2, with both nations forced to share the spoils and split the trophy. But neither the Springboks nor their millions of supporters across the globe will settle for anything less than a commanding 3-1 series triumph.
Kolisi demands more despite victory
Despite the euphoria inside the stadium, Kolisi delivered a measured post-match assessment, acknowledging that whilst the result was crucial, the performance left room for improvement.
“This is not the best we’ve played,” Kolisi admitted after the match. “I think we played better in the first match than in the last two matches. We just didn’t take our chances.
“But the more we play together, the better it gets. Many of us have played together for a long time, but that doesn’t mean you automatically gel as a team when you take the field.
“I still think there’s a lot we can do better, because I’ve seen what we’re capable of when we’re at our best.”
The skipper’s words underline the Springboks’ championship mentality, victory alone isn’t enough if standards slip. With the series on the line in Baltimore, Kolisi is demanding his side elevate their game to the level that has made them world champions.
Heroes’ welcome awaits in America
Across the Atlantic, the Springbok faithful are preparing to welcome their heroes with open arms. Videos circulating widely on social media show the excitement building amongst South African expats in the United States, with the heavyweight forwards already receiving a rapturous reception.
Several clips captured members of the touring party meeting Roelf Meyer, South Africa’s ambassador in Washington DC, with the Bok stars treated like conquering heroes ahead of Saturday’s series finale.
The Baltimore Test represents a unique opportunity for thousands of South African supporters living in America to watch their beloved Boks in person, whilst millions back home will be glued to their screens at the unusual 23:10 kick-off time.
Winner takes all mentality
Yes, the mathematics are clear – the Springboks cannot lose the Greatest Rivalry Series. But that calculation means nothing to the Green and Gold army demanding a decisive 3-1 statement victory.
For the All Blacks, pride and redemption are on the line. A victory in Baltimore would salvage respectability from a challenging tour and keep their rivalry with the Springboks as competitive as ever.
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But if Kolisi’s men can rediscover the clinical edge that saw them crowned world champions, they’ll be heading home with the full trophy and bragging rights intact.
Baltimore awaits. The Greatest Rivalry reaches its climax on American soil, and the stage is set for one final epic encounter.
