- Sport
- Source: Image courtesy of World Rugby Media Zone.
- 15/10/2023
South Africa Survive French Onslaught to Reach World Cup Semi-Final
Published By Everything ZA Travel
Defending champions South Africa twice came from behind to overcome France in a pulsating encounter and secure a semi-final date with England back at the Stade de France next Saturday.
The hosts made a blistering start with an early try from prop Cyril Baille, but they failed to deal with two high kicks as first Kurt-Lee Arendse sprinted to the corner before Damian de Allende plunged over to give the Springboks a 12-7 lead.
France drew level with a try from hooker Peato Mauvaka, Cheslin Kolbe charging down the conversion from Thomas Ramos before the South Africa wing raced onto Jessie Kriel’s deft grubber to score, only for Baille to grab his second try and Ramos to land a penalty – for a high tackle by Eben Etzebeth which earned the second-row a yellow card – to give Les Bleus a 22-19 interval lead.
Ramos extended their advantage with a penalty, but Etzebeth stretched over with 14 minutes left, replacement Handre Pollard converting and adding a penalty which proved decisive despite a late reply from Ramos.
The match was a thrilling encounter from start to finish, with both teams playing their hearts out. South Africa were the more clinical side, however, and they were able to take their chances when they came.
The Springboks were also well-served by their forwards, who dominated the scrum and maul. France were unable to match South Africa’s physicality, and they ultimately paid the price.
South Africa’s victory was a major blow to France’s hopes of winning the Rugby World Cup for the first time. Les Bleus had a brilliant tournament, but they were unable to get over the line in the quarter-finals.
South Africa, meanwhile, are one step closer to defending their title. They will face England in the semi-finals next Saturday, and they will be confident of their chances of reaching the final.
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