South Africa overpowered New Zealand 29-24 in a dramatic third Test in Soweto, taking a 2-1 series lead that means the Springboks cannot lose the series.
Key facts
- South Africa beat New Zealand 29-24 in the third Test in Soweto.
- The result gives South Africa a 2-1 series lead with one match remaining.
- New Zealand raced ahead early through a Savea double before the Boks fought back.
- Kriel and Marx tries helped power the second-half comeback.
- A late New Zealand consolation score narrowed the final margin.
South Africa produced a strong finish to overpower a spirited New Zealand side in Soweto, winning the third Test 29-24 to move 2-1 ahead in the series billed as ‘Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry’. According to the BBC, the world champions came on strong in the final quarter to seal the result.
The match was a helter-skelter contest that swung between the sides. New Zealand made an early impression with a double from Savea, according to the Guardian, before the hosts responded with a second-half surge that left even opponents as accomplished as the All Blacks floundering.
Tries from Kriel and Marx helped South Africa power past their rivals, the Guardian reported, describing the Springboks’ second-half performance as a masterclass and their power as unrivalled. The comeback confirmed South Africa’s ability to overcome a determined challenge.
Sky Sports described the game as a ferocious third Test in which South Africa came from behind to edge New Zealand, moving the Springboks 2-1 ahead in the series with one game still to play.
A consolation score for New Zealand at the death made the margin of victory closer than it had been, according to the Guardian. Despite New Zealand’s panache taking them close throughout the series, the result means South Africa cannot lose the contest.
The Guardian added that the win reinforces South Africa’s standing at the top of world rugby and their status as red-hot favourites for next year’s World Cup, having answered questions raised at moments earlier in the series.
Why it matters
The result keeps South Africa on top of one of rugby's most storied rivalries and secures the series with a match to spare. The Guardian argues it strengthens the Springboks' billing as favourites for next year's World Cup, making this a significant marker ahead of the sport's biggest event.
Frequently asked questions
What was the final score of the third Test?
South Africa beat New Zealand 29-24 in the third Test in Soweto, according to multiple outlets including Sky Sports and the Guardian.
What does the result mean for the series?
The win moves South Africa to a 2-1 series lead with one game remaining, meaning the Springboks cannot lose the series, as reported by the Guardian and Sky Sports.
Who scored for South Africa?
According to the Guardian, tries from Kriel and Marx helped South Africa power past the All Blacks in their second-half comeback.