New Zealand and South Africa will face off in the final of this year’s Rugby World Cup in Paris on Saturday, both aiming for a record fourth title. In anticipation of this clash, let’s take a look back at five notable encounters between these two rugby powerhouses.
1956: NEW ZEALAND 11-5 SOUTH AFRICA
After 35 years of competition, New Zealand finally secured their first series win against South Africa in 1956. Going into the fourth and final test in Auckland with a 2-1 lead, the All Blacks took a 3-0 halftime advantage and sealed the victory with Don Clarke’s impressive kicking.
1995: SOUTH AFRICA 15-12 NEW ZEALAND
In the 1995 World Cup final, New Zealand entered as favorites against the host nation, South Africa. Led by the formidable Jonah Lomu, the All Blacks showcased their power and skill. However, the debutant Springboks, buoyed by the presence of President Nelson Mandela, displayed a resolute defense and secured a dramatic extra-time win with Joel Stransky’s drop-goal.
2000: SOUTH AFRICA 46-40 NEW ZEALAND
In the Tri-Nations tournament of 2000, South Africa had a rocky start, losing their first two games, including a defeat to New Zealand where they failed to score a try. However, in their rematch at Ellis Park, the Springboks unleashed an attacking strategy, running the ball at every opportunity. They built a commanding lead of 33-13, but the All Blacks fought back to take a narrow 40-39 lead. In the end, South African scrumhalf Werner Swanepoel scored the decisive try, securing a thrilling victory.
2017: NEW ZEALAND 57-0 SOUTH AFRICA
This crushing defeat suffered by South Africa at the hands of New Zealand in 2017 was a stark reminder of their struggles before the arrival of coach Rassie Erasmus. The All Blacks dominated the match, scoring eight tries and delivering a masterclass performance. Remarkably, ten of the Springboks who experienced this humiliation will be part of the match-day squad for the upcoming final.
2023: NEW ZEALAND 7-35 SOUTH AFRICA
During a World Cup warm-up game in London, South Africa inflicted the heaviest defeat in New Zealand’s 120-year test history. With a first-half red card for New Zealand’s Scott Barrett, the Springboks capitalized on their numerical advantage and their superior physicality. Despite New Zealand’s previous biggest defeats being by 21 points, this loss by 28 points was a significant blow.
As New Zealand and South Africa prepare to face each other once again in the World Cup final, the stage is set for another thrilling encounter between these rugby giants.
