Africa (Commonwealth Union) _ South African rugby enthusiasts erupted in celebrations on the night of October 28, continuing into the early hours of October 29, following the triumphant victory of the Springboks in the World Cup. The jubilation spanned across cities like Cape Town, Johannesburg, and Bloemfontein, creating a wave of joy throughout the nation. Rugby fan Anton Geldenhuys in Pretoria expressed, “It’s a special time to be alive. We all unite around South African rugby.”
Fly-half Handre Pollard played a pivotal role, scoring all the points for the Springboks. The team’s success mirrored their 1995 triumph over New Zealand, denying the All Blacks the opportunity to secure a fourth title in their fifth final. Reflecting on the historic win, law student Mthamba remarked, “This game has shown me that it’s never too late to fight for your dreams. Back-to-back champions in 2019 and 2023 – this one is for history.”
South Africa captain Siya Kolisi emphasized the significance of the victory beyond the game, stating, “Honestly, people who are not from South Africa don’t understand what this means for our country. It’s not just about the game on the field. Our country goes through such a lot. We are the hope they have.”
Coach Jacques Nienaber acknowledged the immense support from farming communities, with open invitations to watch the matches and donations through entrance fees. The coach mentioned the purchase of green T-shirts by fans, contributing to the vibrant atmosphere. Nienaber highlighted the crucial role of energy from supporters in the team’s last three one-point victories, underscoring its impact on their performance.
The world champions are expected to return to South Africa from France on Tuesday, where they will likely receive a hero’s welcome after securing their historic fourth World Cup win. Looking ahead, the next Rugby World Cup is scheduled to take place in Australia in 2027.
