South Africa toppled hosts France 28-29 in the quarter-finals of the Rugby World Cup on Sunday, October 15, 2023. The Springboks, reigning world champions, have now reached the last four, where they will face England.
South Africa through to the semi-finals
What a night!The Stade de France crowd witnessed a great game of rugby. After a resounding group stage performance by the French, South Africa had to face a XV de France in high spirits. On a run of 24 wins in their last 25 matches, the French had Antoine Dupont back from injury.South Africa had to live up to their status as reigning world champions in a hostile French atmosphere.
As the star of this French team, Dupont led the way and then Damian Penaud put Cyril Baille in the best possible position to convert the first try of the match. And Ramos added the two points (7-0, 4th). Refusing to be dictated to by the pace of the French, South Africa quickly responded through Manie Libbok (7-7, 9th). The two teams went back and forth throughout regulation time. Etzebeth's yellow card turns the match in France's favor. A numerical superiority in favor of the French was punished on the scoreboard (25-19, 54th).
Pollard goes into action
As soon as Etzebeth returns, the Springboks get back into the game and brandish their status as reigning world champions. But the hero at the end of the match was Handre Pollard. His efficiency on penalties was unsurpassed. Ramos gave up the ghost while Pollard clinched South Africa's place in the semi-finals.
