Springbok Women Stun Italy to Secure Historic Rugby World Cup Knockout Spot

The Springbok Women pulled off the biggest victory in their history on Sunday, defeating Italy 29–24 in a pulsating clash at York Community Stadium.

The result booked South Africa a place in the knockout stages of the 2025 Women’s Rugby World Cup in England for the first time ever.

Sinazo Mcatshulwa’s late try, scored just six minutes from the final whistle, sealed back-to-back bonus-point wins for the team in green and gold.

The thrilling contest had the 6,045-strong crowd on their feet as the Springbok Women celebrated a watershed moment in their rugby journey.

A Fast Start

Swys de Bruin’s side wasted no time, with No. 8 Aseza Hele powering over the line in the second minute to set the tone.

Flyhalf Libbie Janse van Rensburg then split Italy’s defence with a clever dummy before releasing Nadine Roos for a converted try, extending South Africa’s lead.

Italy hit back through Vittoria Ostuni Minuzzi, but the Boks regained momentum with a sparkling Roos-Ayanda Malinga combination for their third try. By halftime, Italy had reduced the deficit to 17–12 through Vittoria Vecchini.

The Second-Half Battle

Italy came out firing after the break. Francesca Sgorbini’s try levelled the match at 17–17, before Sizophila Solontsi restored South Africa’s lead. Italy struck back again through Sara Seye, leaving the game finely balanced at 24–24.

But in the dying stages, Mcatshulwa stormed over the line to clinch a dramatic win and make history.

A Watershed Moment for SA Rugby

Commentators hailed the clash as “a game no team deserved to lose,” but the result means South Africa have progressed from the pool stages of the Women’s Rugby World Cup for the first time ever.

It marks a turning point for women’s rugby in the country — one that could inspire a new generation of players.