Rugby World Cup 2023: Springboks come from behind to beat France in quarter-final
In the World Cup quarter-final, South Africa beat France and go through to a semi-final against England
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What a night! The crowd at the Stade de France witnessed a great game of rugby. After a stunning pool stage from the French, South Africa had to face a France side brimming with confidence. They had won 24 of their last 25 matches, and were welcoming back Antoine Dupont, now recovered from injury. South Africa had to live up to their status as defending world champions in a hostile French atmosphere.
As the star of this French team, Dupont ran the show to get things going, then Damian Penaud helped put Cyril Baille in the best position to score the first try of the match. Ramos added the two points with the conversion (7-0, 4th minute). Refusing to be dictated to by the French tempo, South Africa responded quickly through Manie Libbok (7-7, 9th minute). The two sides traded blows throughout normal time. The game swung in France's favour after Etzebeth's yellow card, with the numerical advantage reflected on the scoreboard (25-19, 54th minute).
Pollard steps up
As soon as Etzebeth returned, the Springboks got back into the game and showed their quality as defending world champions. But the hero of the closing stages was Handre Pollard. He was remarkably accurate with his penalty kicks. Ramos faltered while Pollard handed South Africa their place in the semi-final on a plate.