The Quarter-finals lived up to their promise, delivering a spectacular conclusion. An extraordinary contest, filled with dramatic twists, concluded with French players scattered across the field, torn between despair and exhaustion, as they were denied the opportunity to triumph at their own World Cup.

In a stunning turn of events, South Africa emerged victorious, marking a significant victory for the global south. They now advance to the semi-finals against England, the sole northern team remaining in the tournament. Even the most fervent supporters of the northern teams would concede that their representatives did not display the best of northern rugby.

This weekend's quarter-finals showcased the world's four best teams, creating a clash of titans. The clash between Ireland and New Zealand on Saturday and the match we witnessed on this day would have graced any World Cup final.

The game witnessed the brilliant French, known for their free-flowing style, going head-to-head against the formidable Springbok defense. The pace and intensity of the match from the outset were unmatched, with France setting the tempo.

However, the Springboks, renowned for their resilience, repeatedly thwarted the French with their trademark virtues. Eben Etzebeth's dominating presence around the field, especially menacing Antoine Dupont, left an indelible mark on the game. Damian de Allende and Jesse Kriel, alongside their formidable pack, also disrupted the French midfield.

While France may have won praise for their artistic flair, it was the Springboks who demonstrated the most efficient path to victory. As the clock ticked down, France's relentless pursuit of an expansive running game slowly unraveled, yet they persisted until the final moments.

The match began at a breakneck pace, filled with confidence and hope for the French, who opened the scoring in the fourth minute when Cyril Baille crossed the line after a precise attacking lineout. The first half continued with dramatic shifts in momentum.

While France dictated the game with ball in hand, the Springboks exploited a weakness in the French defense, scoring two tries in 10 minutes. Cobus Reinach's up-and-under led to Kurt-Lee Arendse's breakaway try, followed by Manie Libbok's precise kick and Cameron Woki's inability to gather, allowing De Allende to score South Africa's second try.

The back-and-forth nature of the match continued, with France equalizing shortly after. Antoine Dupont's quick tap penalty set up Peato Mauvaka's try, and Cheslin Kolbe's brilliant block on Thomas Ramos's conversion kept the scores level.

The first half concluded with a yellow card shown to Etzebeth after an accidental head clash, and Ramos's penalty allowed France to take a 22-19 lead into the break.

The second half maintained the thrilling pace, but the French attacks gradually lost their edge. The scoring slowed down, with France only adding another Ramos penalty in the third quarter. South Africa seized control as the match reached its climax.

A break from the scrum disrupted the French defense, and a deep kick forced a desperate chase. Handré Pollard's conversion following Etzebeth's powerful run gave South Africa a one-point lead that held until the final minutes, despite a penalty exchange.

As the clock turned red, France launched one final desperate attack from their half, showcasing brilliance and intensity, but ultimately succumbing to desperation. A knock-on felt inevitable, sealing the Springboks' path to another final.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]