Siya Kolisi and Malcolm Marx scored crucial tries as South Africa celebrated their fourth consecutive victory over New Zealand, achieving an 18-12 win in the Rugby Championship held in Cape Town. This win marks the first time in 75 years that the Springboks have won four matches in a row against the All Blacks.
With this victory, South Africa reclaimed the Freedom Cup, a trophy contested between the two nations, for the first time since 2009. New Zealand, despite their dominance at the breakdown leading to several penalties, struggled to contain the home team in the closing stages as the Springboks began to assert control over territory and possession.
The first half concluded with New Zealand leading 9-3, thanks to a strong defensive effort from both sides, coupled with yellow cards issued to Springbok No 8 Jasper Wiese and All Blacks wing Sevu Reece.
In the second half, South Africa gained momentum off the bench and took the lead for the first time just minutes into the half when Kolisi scored from close range after a sustained assault in the New Zealand 22.
The teams exchanged penalties before South Africa was temporarily reduced to 14 players when full-back Willie le Roux mishandled the ball while trying to intercept.
With just eight minutes remaining, New Zealand’s McKenzie had a chance to put his team ahead but missed a penalty from directly in front of the posts. The All Blacks faced another setback as Tyrel Lomax was penalized for obstructing Cheslin Kolbe, forcing them to play with a man down.
From the ensuing attacking lineout, Marx scored South Africa’s second try by breaking free from the maul and diving over in the corner, sealing the victory for the Springboks.