The Springbok Women’s rugby team made history at the 2025 Rugby World Cup, reaching the quarter-finals for the first time, but their journey ended in Wellington on Saturday with a 46–17 defeat to defending champions New Zealand.
While the scoreline reflects the dominance of the Black Ferns, South Africa can take immense pride in a campaign that showcased growth, resilience, and the team’s potential on the world stage.
Early Sparks Against the Black Ferns
The first half saw the Springbok Women take the fight directly to the New Zealand side, keeping the game tightly contested.
At halftime, the scoreboard read 10-all, highlighting the team’s competitive spirit.
Captain Babalwa Latsha set the tone with a well-worked try after 20 minutes, giving South Africa a deserved lead.
New Zealand quickly responded, scoring two tries from Theresa Setefano and Braxton Sorensen-McGee, taking advantage of South Africa’s handling errors.
Still, the Bok Women didn’t back down.
Just before the break, Aphiwe Ngwevu powered over the line, keeping South Africa level heading into the locker room.
Black Ferns Pull Away in the Second Half
After halftime, the momentum shifted decisively in New Zealand’s favor.
The Black Ferns, drawing on their experience in high-pressure matches, scored three tries in the first seven minutes of the second half through Renee Holmes, Sorensen-McGee, and Kaipo Olsen-Baker, establishing a 15-point lead.
Despite fresh legs from the South African bench, New Zealand maintained control.
Olsen-Baker scored again in the 55th minute, and Holmes added a second try following a slick counterattack from a stolen Bok lineout deep in South Africa’s territory.
South Africa fought back valiantly. Yonela Ngxingolo crossed the line, but the try was disallowed after a TMO review for obstruction.
Persistence paid off later when Lerato Makua scored following a sustained attacking drive.
However, Katelyn Vahaakolo sealed the result with a powerful solo effort, ensuring New Zealand advanced.
Milestone Performance for South Africa
Though the tournament ends for the Springbok Women here, the team leaves with a milestone achievement: making it to the quarter-finals for the first time.
Their competitive display against one of the world’s best teams signals the rise of South African women’s rugby and offers a foundation to build upon for future international campaigns.
Final Score and Key Scorers
New Zealand 46 (10) – Tries: Setefano, Sorensen-McGee (2), Holmes (2), Olsen-Baker (2), Vahaakolo.
Conversions: Holmes, Sorensen-McGee (2)
South Africa 17 (10) – Tries: Latsha, Ngwevu, Makua. Conversion: Dolf