In a stunning display of power and composure, the 14-man South African Springboks stormed back to crush France 32-17, silencing a hopeful Stade de France. The world champions looked to be in serious trouble when they went down to 14 men just before half-time, but they produced a second-half masterclass to overwhelm Les Bleus. The victory was a testament to their champion mindset, turning a significant disadvantage into a dominant performance.
The match initially seemed to be going to France’s script. Driven by the desire for World Cup revenge, the home side started brightly, with Damian Penaud crossing twice to become France’s all-time leading try-scorer. The atmosphere in Paris was electric, and when Springbok lock Lood de Jager was sent off for a dangerous tackle on Thomas Ramos, the path to a French victory looked clear.
However, the second half saw a complete reversal of fortune. The Springboks, instead of folding, simplified their approach and relied on their “sheer physicality,” as described in post-match analysis. They absorbed the French attacks and then mercilessly punished every mistake. France, meanwhile, began to unravel, their discipline crumbling under the relentless pressure as they conceded a slew of reckless penalties.
The decisive moment came when France’s Louis Bielle-Biarrey was yellow-carded for a deliberate knock-on, neutralizing their man advantage. The Springboks seized this window with ruthless efficiency. First, André Esterhuizen was driven over the line from a powerful maul. Then, Grant Williams exploited the splintered and rattled French defence, darting through for another try that stunned the home crowd.
Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, who was perfect from the tee, put the game beyond reach. He rounded the defence for a late try and converted it himself, completing the remarkable turnaround. Coach Rassie Erasmus praised his team’s calm and wisdom, while France was left to reflect on a fourth straight loss and another painful defeat at the hands of their old rivals.