Siya Kolisi and Malcolm Marx each scored tries, leading South Africa to an 18-12 victory over New Zealand in Cape Town, marking the first time in 75 years that the Springboks defeated the All Blacks four consecutive times. This win allowed South Africa to reclaim the Freedom Cup, a trophy contested between the two nations, for the first time since 2009.
New Zealand showcased their strength at the breakdown, accumulating penalties that kept them competitive. However, in the final 20 minutes, the Springboks took control, effectively managing territory and possession.
At halftime, New Zealand held a narrow 9-3 lead after both teams exhibited strong defensive play, with each side receiving a yellow card—South Africa’s No. 8 Jasper Wiese and New Zealand’s wing Sevu Reece.
In the second half, South Africa gained momentum from their bench and secured their first lead of the match in the 49th minute with Kolisi’s try after sustained pressure in the New Zealand 22. The teams exchanged penalties, but South Africa was briefly down to 14 players when full-back Willie le Roux committed a knock-on while attempting an intercept.
New Zealand’s McKenzie had a chance to put the visiting team ahead with eight minutes remaining but missed a penalty opportunity directly in front of the posts. The All Blacks were further hampered when Tyrel Lomax received a yellow card for obstructing Cheslin Kolbe. Following a lineout from the ensuing penalty, Marx scored South Africa’s second try, breaking free from the maul to dive into the corner and secure the win.