On September 23, Ireland and South Africa faced each other in a memorable rugby match at the Stade de France. This standoff between the two leading teams in the world rankings offered a great spectacle to rugby fans. In the end, it was Ireland who won with a score of 13-8, thus confirming their status as the world’s leading nation.
From the start of the match, the Irish showed their determination by choosing to take the sidelines rather than attempt a penalty. Unfortunately, this decision did not bear fruit and it was the Springboks who took the opportunity to launch a dazzling counter-attack. The Greens then struggled to contain the South African power, but they remained courageous and finally returned to the opposing camp.
The Irish scored the first try thanks to Mack Hansen, transformed by the talented Johnny Sexton. But the South Africans were quick to react and scored a try through Chelsin Kolbe. Gunner Johnny Sexton then gave his team the lead again with a penalty.
This match was marked by incredible intensity and fighting spirit on both sides. The Irish were able to demonstrate a solid defense, in particular thanks to the scratch of Josh van der Flier, voted best player in the world in 2022. For their part, the South Africans showed all their power in attack, with devastating charges by Damian de Allende.
In the end, Ireland managed to hold on until the end and scored three more points from a penalty thanks to James Crowley. This victory confirms the Irish’s favorite status for the competition and records their sixteenth consecutive victory.
They now have one last group match to play against Scotland, a match they can approach with confidence after their solid performance against South Africa.
This match between Ireland and South Africa will go down in the annals of rugby and showed the talent and determination of these two great teams.