In an electrifying encounter at Ellis Park on August 31, 2024, the Springboks once again demonstrated why they are the reigning world champions, staging a dramatic comeback to secure a 31-27 victory over the All Blacks. This match, laden with tension and physicality, was a testament to the Boks' resilience and the undeniable influence of their infamous 'Bomb Squad.'

The All Blacks appeared poised to avenge their narrow loss to the Boks in the 2023 World Cup final for much of the game. New Zealand dominated early, outscoring South Africa with four tries to one, courtesy of Codie Taylor, Caleb Clarke (who crossed the line twice), and Jordie Barrett. By the 51st minute, the All Blacks appeared poised to cruise to victory, with a commanding lead and the Springboks struggling to maintain any significant momentum.

However, the tide began to turn with the introduction of South Africa's impact players, a strategy that has become synonymous with their game plan. Kwagga Smith and Grant Williams, who came off the bench, ignited a late rally that saw the Springboks overturn a 10-point deficit in the final 12 minutes. Following relentless mauling pressure, Smith's close-range try was a pivotal moment, especially after Ofa Tu'ungafasi's yellow card reduced the All Blacks to 14 men.

Springbok captain Siya Kolisi, who played a crucial role despite briefly leaving the field for a head injury assessment, praised his team's composure. "Whenever we are behind, we never panic," Kolisi reflected post-match. "We have been in far worse situations before and have come back. We have a multitude of cool heads and leaders; when I'm not speaking, it's either Eben, Pieter-Steph, or even the young guys with just a few caps. Nobody panicked."

The Boks' calmness under pressure was evident in the way they executed their plays in the dying moments of the game. After Kwagga Smith’s try, it was scrumhalf Grant Williams who sealed the victory, using his agility and vision to dart over the line, putting the Springboks ahead for the first time since the opening minutes. His performance, coupled with some astute exit kicking, underlined his potential as a game-changer for South Africa.

New Zealand coach Scott Robertson acknowledged the impact of the Springboks' late surge, lamenting moments of ill-discipline that ultimately cost his team the match. "It was just a little bit of ill discipline by the lads that cost us," Robertson said. "But those are the fine margins in Test footy... We still had opportunities to win the game; we have just got to execute better."

The game also highlighted the maturation of young fly-half Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, who, despite immense pressure, managed to steer the Boks’ kicking game with poise. His 16 points from the tee, including a remarkable 62-meter penalty, were crucial in keeping South Africa within striking distance.

Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus, while relieved with the win, acknowledged the challenges faced during the match. "The guys did really well to pull off a victory against a New Zealand team that played really well and dominated the whole game," he said. Erasmus also praised the contributions of newer players like Aphelele Fassi and Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, emphasising the importance of building depth in the squad.

As the dust settled on this epic encounter, the Springboks emerged as the only undefeated team in the Rugby Championship, setting the stage for what promises to be a thrilling conclusion to the tournament. Their victory at Ellis Park not only reinforced their dominance in world rugby but also highlighted the blend of experience and emerging talent that continues to drive South African rugby forward.
[Submitted by Kevin Rademeyer]