It was a day to remember for the Springbok Women as they secured a historic 29-24 victory over Italy in York on Sunday.
Not only was it their first win against the Italians in four attempts, but it also ensured South Africa’s progression to the Women’s Rugby World Cup play-offs for the very first time.
This triumph marks a milestone for South African rugby, as the team will break into the top ten of the World Rugby rankings for the first time ever.
Swys de Bruin Praises Tactical Brilliance and Team Spirit
Head coach Swys de Bruin highlighted the resilience and determination of his squad as key factors in the victory.
Italy fought back twice to draw level during the match, but the South African team refused to back down.
“I am so proud of everyone,” de Bruin said. “This was really a team effort—not just on the field here in England, but also with the support structures back home.
This performance justifies the belief SA Rugby had in us.”
He added that while Italy’s Six Nations experience showed through in their comeback attempts, the Springboks’ game plan and execution ultimately won the day.
“We had a plan to beat Italy, and credit to my coaching staff, it worked to a tee.
Our first-phase play helped us score some tries, and our backs delivered some delightful tries as well.
We improved on every positive statistic and this is only round two of the tournament. It’s such a relief that it worked as planned.”
Captain Nolusindiso Booi Celebrates Team Growth and Self-Belief
Team captain Nolusindiso Booi echoed her coach’s pride, highlighting the significance of the win for both the team and the legacy of South African women’s rugby.
“The performance was magic,” Booi said. “We never stopped fighting, knowing what was at stake.
This win is for everyone who came before us, those who paved the way. Look at where we started and where we are now—in the top ten of the world game.
It’s incredibly rewarding, especially for the coaches who prepared us for this moment.”
Playing in her fourth Rugby World Cup, Booi also described the victory as a personal highlight.
“I won’t play at this level again after this tournament, and to have won two pool games in a row and qualify for the quarter-finals is just such a humble feeling of gratitude.
We worked so hard for this and now we finally reap some rewards.”
Breaking Into the Top Ten Drives the Team
Booi emphasized that the ambition to enter the top ten of the world rankings motivated the team throughout the game.
“We knew why we were playing,” she said. “The support today in York was massive and definitely pushed us to perform at our best.
There were too many people who would have been disappointed if we didn’t make history today.”
Eyes Now on France
With their historic win secured, the Springbok Women will return to Northampton—where they defeated Brazil in their pool opener—to begin preparations for their upcoming group phase clash against France, the other unbeaten team in the pool.
