South Africa’s Dramatic Victory Over England in World Cup Semi-final
In a thrilling World Cup semi-final clash, Handre Pollard emerged as the hero, securing South Africa’s place in the final with a 49-meter penalty just three minutes from time, as they narrowly edged past England 16-15 at the Stade de France on Saturday.
England’s Early Lead and Dominance
England took an early lead, with Owen Farrell landing the first of his four penalties in the second minute.
For the majority of the game’s first 70 minutes, England dominated and controlled play, maintaining a 15-6 lead.
South Africa’s Late Surge and RG Snyman’s Try
However, South Africa refused to give up.
A late surge from the defending champions, which included a crucial try from RG Snyman and Pollard’s match-winning kick, saw them make a stunning comeback.
After Pollard kicked a penalty to the corner, Snyman rose to collect the line-out ball, then powered through three England tacklers to score a try.
Pollard, who had replaced the misfiring Manie Libbok after just 30 minutes, made no mistake with the conversion, reducing the gap to just two points with 10 minutes remaining.
Pollard’s Match-Winning Penalty
With only three minutes left on the clock, England was penalized for collapsing the scrum.
Pollard, with nerves of steel, calmly fired the ball between the posts from just in front of halfway, putting the Springboks in front for the first time.
South Africa Advances to Fourth World Cup Final
This thrilling victory propelled the Springboks to their fourth World Cup final, where they will meet their old rivals, New Zealand.
The winner of the final will become the first team to secure four World Cup wins, making this a historic showdown.
England’s Strong Start and Game Strategy
England began the game impressively, with Farrell landing penalties in the early minutes.
Their game strategy aimed to “strangle” their opponents, putting South Africa on the back foot with high kicks and employing quick follow-up “offensive” defense to force Springbok errors and turnovers.
Key Moments in the Game
Farrell was on target once again, extending England’s lead.
South Africa managed to get on the board through Libbok’s penalty, but his game was off, suited more for dry conditions.
Pollard replaced Libbok and nailed his first penalty chance, but England still led 12-6 at halftime.
Second-Half Changes and Near Miss for South Africa
South Africa made key second-half changes, with Faf de Klerk and Willie Le Roux coming on.
Le Roux came close to scoring the first try, but the ball rolled through the dead ball line.
Farrell’s Stunning Drop Goal and Pollard’s Heroics
England’s Farrell delivered a stunning 48-meter drop goal, extending their lead to 15-6.
However, Pollard’s heroics ensured that South Africa never gave up on their World Cup dreams.
This thrilling semi-final showcased the heart-pounding excitement and determination that defines the Rugby World Cup.
A Thrilling Semi-final With Last-Minute Heroics
The semi-final between South Africa and England delivered a truly thrilling spectacle.
The early lead taken by England seemed insurmountable, given their dominance in the first 70 minutes.
However, South Africa’s late surge, led by RG Snyman’s crucial try and Handre Pollard’s ice-cold match-winning penalty, showcased the never-give-up spirit of the defending champions.
This victory sets the stage for a historic final against New Zealand, where the stakes couldn’t be higher.
Rugby fans around the world will eagerly await this epic showdown.
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