JOHANNESBURG — South Africa produced a powerful second-half performance to defeat New Zealand 29-24 on Saturday, taking a 2-1 lead in the four-match series after another bruising chapter in rugby’s greatest rivalry.
The Springboks and All Blacks were locked at 12-12 at halftime after a fiercely contested opening period, but South Africa’s physical dominance and improved control after the break proved decisive at FNB Stadium in Johannesburg.
The victory was South Africa’s second straight win over New Zealand and leaves the Springboks in a commanding position heading into next weekend’s final Test in Baltimore, US.
Four Tries Each in a Brutal Contest
The match delivered the intensity expected whenever South Africa and New Zealand meet.
Both teams crossed the line four times, but the Springboks made better use of their opportunities during a decisive spell in the second half.
South Africa’s tries came from Kurt-Lee Arendse, Jesse Kriel and Malcolm Marx, along with a penalty try.
New Zealand responded through captain Ardie Savea, Will Jordan and Samisoni Taukei’aho, with Savea scoring twice before being forced from the field with a shoulder injury.
Fly-half Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu added two conversions and a penalty for South Africa as the Springboks gradually took control of the contest.
South Africa Take Control After Halftime
New Zealand began strongly and led at several points during the first half.
However, the momentum shifted after the break.
The Springboks raised their defensive intensity, applied sustained pressure through their forwards and began winning the physical battles around the set piece.
Jesse Kriel’s try gave South Africa a crucial breakthrough before Malcolm Marx powered over later in the half to extend the advantage.
New Zealand continued to threaten and refused to disappear from the contest, but South Africa’s ability to control possession and dominate key moments allowed the hosts to protect their lead.
The All Blacks scored again after the hooter, but it was too late to prevent another narrow defeat.
Siya Kolisi Reaches Major Milestone
The victory was also a special occasion for South Africa captain Siya Kolisi.
The result marked his 55th victory as Springboks captain, adding another milestone to the career of one of South African rugby’s most influential leaders.
Kolisi has been central to a Springboks era that has delivered major international success, and Saturday’s win provided another memorable moment in front of a passionate home crowd.
Nearly 86,000 spectators watched the latest clash between two of world rugby’s traditional superpowers.
Injury Blows Add to New Zealand’s Problems
New Zealand’s defeat was made worse by injuries to key players.
Savea suffered a shoulder injury and was forced out of the match, while centre Quinn Tupaea also sustained a serious knee injury.
The All Blacks then suffered another setback when Luke Jacobson was added to the injury list with an elbow problem.
The three players are expected to miss the final match of the tour, creating a major challenge for New Zealand as it attempts to level the series.
South Africa will also have an injury concern after star winger Cheslin Kolbe suffered a broken jaw during the match.
Final Test Moves to the United States
The rivalry now heads to the United States for the fourth and final Test.
The two teams are scheduled to meet in Baltimore next Saturday, where New Zealand will attempt to draw the series level at 2-2.
South Africa, meanwhile, will look to finish the series with another statement victory.
Coach Rassie Erasmus said there was still little separating the two sides despite South Africa’s series advantage, underlining just how competitive the clashes have been.
Springboks Seize the Momentum
For South Africa, the victory was another demonstration of the qualities that have made the Springboks one of rugby’s dominant forces.
Their forward power, defensive resilience and ability to absorb pressure once again proved crucial.
New Zealand showed plenty of attacking danger and scored four tries of their own, but the Springboks were stronger during the defining moments of the second half.
With a 29-24 victory, South Africa now lead the series 2-1.
The rivalry is not over yet.
But after two consecutive victories and another powerful display at home, the Springboks head to Baltimore with the momentum firmly on their side.
WWC ONE MEDIA J.M.D
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