In a highly intense and fiercely contested rugby encounter, South Africa emerged victorious over England in a thrilling World Cup showdown, thereby securing their consecutive appearance in the final. The match was characterised by gripping moments, featuring monumental scrums and lineouts. Both teams exhibited remarkable tenacity and precision, leaving no aspect unexplored in their quest for triumph. Ultimately, it was the South African squad who emerged triumphant, showcasing their unwavering resolve and exceptional abilities.

By Mashobane wako Mntungwa

In a heart-stopping showdown at the iconic Stade de France, South Africa has emerged as the victorious warriors, punching their ticket to the Rugby World Cup final by edging out England in a nail-biting showdown with a tantalising scoreline of 16-15.

In a titanic clash, Amabhokobhoko were left trailing behind the spirited England squad, their mettle pushed to the limits at every twist and turn. Yet, just as despair began to cast its shadow, a tenacious figure emerged from the depths – none other than the indomitable Handre Pollard, poised to etch his name in the annals of glory.

With nerves of pure steel, Pollard unleashed a cataclysmic boot from an awe-inspiring 49 metres, propelling the ball into the heavens. Time stood still, the entire stadium, and South Africa, holding its collective breath, until at long last, the celestial sphere found its destined trajectory, securing an emphatic triumph for the unconquerable Amabhokobhoko.

In a dazzling display of precision and finesse, Owen Farrell effortlessly converted four penalties, each one a testament to his unwavering accuracy. He unleashed a monstrous drop goal that soared through the uprights, leaving Amabhokobhoko in awe. With a commanding 15-6 lead, England stood tall, their victory within reach, as the clock ticked down with 25 minutes left to play.

However, with just over ten minutes left in the game, the defending champions made a strong comeback when towering lock RG Snyman scored a try, bringing Amabhokobhoko within one score of their opponents. And to top it off, Pollard’s impressive performance in the final moments of the match sealed the victory for South Africa.

Pollard conveyed a profound sense of astonishment and overwhelming relief. Observing his demeanour, one could discern a palpable sensation akin to waves of relief cascading over him, reminiscent of a refreshing breeze on a sweltering summer day following the conclusion of the match.

“It’s unbelievable, it’s a lot of relief in this moment,” Pollard said after the match. Fair play to England, I think they put us under pressure in exactly the right areas. But jeez the fight we showed never giving up, it is what we stand for as a team and as a nation,” said Pollard.

He gave a nod of appreciation to the Springboks’ scrum, for it was their Herculean effort that paved the way for him to win the game.

“Firstly, the scrum penalty, that is what got us the opportunity. It was just a credit to them, they were unbelievable. It was a big moment, but it is what you want as a player on this stage, to have moments like that as a fly-half is what you live for. It was fun.” Pollard acknowledged.

England stepped onto the field as the ultimate dark horses, ready to face off against their familiar foe from the 2019 final. But this time, they brought a whole new level of grit and tenacity that had been missing from their recent displays. Undeterred by the treacherous rain-soaked pitch, England unleashed a meticulously crafted game strategy and burst into the match with an electrifying surge of energy.

The English team unleashed a fierce and unyielding spirit, leaving Amabhokobhoko scrambling to defend their turf. And lo and behold, young Farrell, with his mighty boot, effortlessly transformed an early penalty into a glorious triumph, banishing any lingering doubts that dared to haunt his comrades.

The English team showcased a formidable and assertive style of play, putting the South African team on the back foot. Moreover, the experienced 32-year-old Farrell, who has been a key player for England since 2012, confidently converted an early penalty, easing any concerns within the team.

Siya Kolisi, the captain of Amabhokobhoko, acknowledged the commendable efforts of the English team in the World Cup. Despite being underestimated before the tournament, Kolisi recognised England’s diligent work and resilience. He emphasised that England’s performance demonstrated their true capabilities and cautioned against underestimating their strength as a formidable team.

“Credit to England, they have worked hard. They were written off before the World Cup. The team pulled themselves together and showed who they are. They are not a team you take lightly,” Kolisi said.

Farrell swiftly boosted his score, which was then countered by a response from Springboks flyhalf Manie Libbok. Nevertheless, England consistently held the advantage with sustained momentum, even though they occasionally gave up possession by kicking the ball away. Farrell successfully converted a third penalty, thereby extending their lead.

Jacques Nienaber, the coach of the Springboks, made a strategic decision to substitute Libbok with Pollard after observing the direction of the game. This substitution proved to be significant as Pollard promptly scored a crucial penalty, effectively reducing the deficit.

Before the conclusion of the first half, Farrell successfully converted another penalty, thereby extending England’s lead by six points. Throughout the match, the composed England captain displayed unwavering composure, exemplified by his significant dropkick early in the second half, which propelled England’s advantage beyond the point of a converted try.

England relentlessly pressed forward, squeezing the Springboks, and tormenting them in their own territory. Possession after possession, they relentlessly pounded on the door of the South African red zone. Yet, in a cruel twist of fate, they failed to seize the golden opportunity that would have sealed their victory.

With a mere sliver of time remaining, the Springboks’ scrum exhibited its formidable strength, causing their opponents to succumb to their dominance. A penalty was granted, and with great skill and precision, Pollard executed a remarkable touch-finder, positioning the Springboks in an unparalleled advantageous position on the revered field.

The ball swiftly soared from the lineout, resembling a bolt of lightning, presenting Snyman with a remarkable opportunity to secure his place in the history books. And indeed, he did just that, narrowing the deficit with a triumphant score that resonated throughout the stadium.

However, the Boks were not finished yet. Another scrum penalty, akin to a blessing from the rugby deities, bestowed upon the flyhalf the long-awaited chance he had been yearning for. With a flick of his skilled boot, he propelled South Africa into yet another glorious final, preserving their unblemished record in World Cup knockout battles at Stade de France.

“Immense credit to South Africa to come back and find a way to win. Great credit to them, they are the number one side in the world. They are the world champions for a reason,” said England coach Steve Borthwick.

South Africa will go head-to-head with New Zealand in the highly anticipated final next Saturday, where the stakes will be high, and the tackles will be fierce.

“Next week is going to be hard, it’s going to be special but may they [the supporters] stay with us and hopefully we can defend it,” said Kolisi.