As the Springboks gear up for a monumental clash against their arch-rivals, the All Blacks, at the iconic Eden Park on 6 September, South African rugby fans are buzzing with anticipation and nostalgia. The history between these two rugby powerhouses is rich and storied, with the Springboks having produced some unforgettable victories over the All Blacks since readmission. As we eagerly await the next chapter in this fierce rivalry, lets take a trip down memory lane and relive 10 of the best Springbok wins against the All Blacks.
One of the most memorable victories over the All Blacks came in 1995 when the Springboks, led by the inspirational Francois Pienaar, clinched a historic Rugby World Cup triumph on home soil. The iconic image of Nelson Mandela handing the Webb Ellis Cup to Pienaar remains etched in the minds of rugby fans across South Africa.
Fast forward to 2018, and the Springboks delivered a masterclass performance to defeat the All Blacks 36-34 in Wellington. It was a match defined by the brilliance of Handre Pollard, who scored 15 points including a crucial late penalty to seal the victory. The resilience and determination shown by the Springboks on that day will forever be etched in the annals of South African rugby history.
As we look ahead to the upcoming showdown at Eden Park, there is a sense of excitement and expectation in the air. The Springboks will be looking to draw inspiration from their past triumphs over the All Blacks as they aim to continue their recent run of success against the world champions. With the likes of Siya Kolisi, Cheslin Kolbe, and Lukhanyo Am in fine form, the Springboks have a squad brimming with talent and experience.
In the build-up to the clash, Springbok coach Jacques Nienaber expressed confidence in his teams ability to rise to the occasion. Facing the All Blacks at Eden Park is the ultimate test for any rugby player, but we are ready for the challenge. Our players are aware of the history and significance of this fixture, and they are determined to make the nation proud, Nienaber said.
South African rugby fans are also eagerly anticipating the match, with many reminiscing about past victories over the All Blacks and eagerly anticipating a potential upset at Eden Park. I vividly remember watching the Springboks beat the All Blacks in 2009, and it was a moment of pure joy and pride. I believe our boys can do it again this time, said avid fan Thandiwe Mabaso.
As the clock ticks closer to kickoff, the significance of the upcoming clash is not lost on either team. For the Springboks, a victory at Eden Park would not only extend their recent dominance over the All Blacks but also serve as a statement of intent ahead of the Rugby Championship and the looming Rugby World Cup. Conversely, the All Blacks will be eager to assert their supremacy and reclaim their status as the undisputed kings of world rugby.
In conclusion, the stage is set for a titanic battle at Eden Park as the Springboks look to add another chapter to their storied history against the All Blacks. With memories of past triumphs serving as motivation and inspiration, South Africas finest will take to the field with pride and passion, ready to etch their names in rugby folklore once again. As the world watches with bated breath, one thing is certain - when the Springboks and the All Blacks collide, the rugby world stops and takes notice.