The Springbok Women claimed the greatest result in their history as they made it two bonus-point wins in a row to confirm their place in the knockout stages of the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup in England. They beat Italy 29-24, scoring five tries to four in the process.
It was a perfect way to sign off Women’s Month for South Africa.
For the second day in succession, the York Community Stadium threw up a RWC classic with the South Africans triumphing 29-24 over Italy in a thriller thanks to Sinazo Mcatshulwa’s try six minutes from time.
Scores from Aseza Hele, Nadine Roos, Ayanda Malinga and Sizophila Solontsi had twice put Swys De Bruin’s side in front but a valiant Italian side fought back on both occasions.
But in the end, it was the southern hemisphere outfit who prevailed, and the emotion was there for all to see from those in green and gold come full-time as referee Ella Goldsmith’s whistle was met with wild celebrations.
The Springbok Women will meet France – who are second in Pool D after thumping Brazil 84-5 – next Sunday to decide who goes through as group winners.
“This is unreal, it is so emotional,” said head coach Swys de Bruin. “We have never made the quarters, we have never beaten Italy.
“The nation is so much behind these girls. It is in our blood. We just love it. We try to copy our men’s teams, the sevens, the under-20s. We thought we must catch up now. Our girls were absolutely fantastic.”
Player of the match Libbie Van Rensburg added: “This is massive. We spoke about changing history in South Africa for women’s rugby and we did that.”
“Every single lady who is in the squad is part of making history and I think we really made South Africa proud.”
