Aseza Hele Hat-Trick Powers Springbok Women to 66-6 World Cup Victory Over Brazil

The Springbok Women made a powerful statement in their opening Rugby World Cup 2025 clash, storming past Brazil 66-6 at Franklin’s Gardens in Northampton.

Aseza Hele stole the show with a barnstorming hat-trick inside 50 minutes, as South Africa ran in 10 tries to secure maximum points and take early control of Pool D.

Hele’s Heroics Lead the Way

The dominant No 8 was unstoppable with ball in hand, crossing three times to set the tone for the Springbok Women’s commanding display. Hele’s powerful carries and relentless pace underlined why she remains one of the world’s top back-rowers.

She was well supported by doubles from Ayanda Malinga and Libbie Janse van Rensburg, with further tries from Nadine Roos, Aphiwe Ngwevu — named Player of the Match — and Lerato Makua.

Brazil Show Fight, But Boks Too Strong

Playing in their first-ever Women’s Rugby World Cup match, Brazil brought heart and determination, making over 130 tackles in the first half alone. Flyhalf Raquel Kochhann slotted two penalties to give the South Americans brief relief.

But South Africa’s set-piece dominance, slick backline moves, and physical edge overwhelmed their opponents, building a 26-3 halftime lead before cutting loose in the second half.

De Bruin’s Charges Send a Message

Head coach Swys de Bruin praised his team’s intensity and clinical execution.

“We wanted to start this tournament with energy and belief, and the players delivered that perfectly,” he said.

The Bok Women’s fast start saw Nadine Roos cross within three minutes, followed by Hele’s opener just five minutes later. From there, South Africa never looked back.

With Italy up next in York before a pool-stage finale against France, the Boks have shown they are not just participants but contenders with real intent.

Match Summary

Springbok Women 66 (26): Tries – Nadine Roos, Aseza Hele (3), Ayanda Malinga (2), Libbie Janse van Rensburg (2), Aphiwe Ngwevu, Lerato Makua. Conversions – Byrhandre Dolf (8).

Brazil 6 (3): Penalties – Raquel Kochhann (2).