The Springboks have stunned the world by becoming the first rugby team in history to secure four wins in total, in a back to back win that has seen the country united.
It was another one-point thriller in which the Boks were held pointless in the second half after twice being reduced to 14-men against a New Zealand side that itself played 50 minutes with 14 after the red-carding of their captain, Sam Cane.
The entire country erupted into celebration on Saturday night as the Bokke pulled off an amazing victory over New Zealand, the third match in a row that was decided by just one point.
Back to back 🥹#StrongerTogether #Springboks #RWCFinal #RSAvNZL pic.twitter.com/Dpypyby6h7
— Springboks (@Springboks) October 28, 2023
With this a few mins left before the final whistle is blown, Bok fever has infected the DHL stadium in Cape Town pic.twitter.com/tRt74SGugA
— Smile90.4 FM (@Smile904FM) October 28, 2023
Government has joined millions of South Africans, Africans and Springbok fans from across the globe in congratulating the World Rugby 2023 champions.
In this record breaking victory, the Springboks showed determination, creativity and strength against New Zealand’s All Blacks.
President Cyril Ramaphosa helped the champions to lift the Webb Ellis trophy for the second time.
Ramaphosa was elated and offered his congratulations to the team, as well as coaching team, the broader squad and the team management and technical and support staff.
South Africa wins the 2023 Rugby World Cup final #RWCFinal #StrongerTogether 🏉🏆❤️🇿🇦 pic.twitter.com/Vg7fD96xlT
— Presidency | South Africa 🇿🇦 (@PresidencyZA) October 28, 2023
IT’S COMING HOME!! 🏉🏆❤️🇿🇦#RWC2023 #WebbEllisCup #StrongerTogether pic.twitter.com/qhtdlQ1WWJ
— Presidency | South Africa 🇿🇦 (@PresidencyZA) October 28, 2023
The President said: “Stronger Together is a belief that came to life for Springbok supporters all around our country and continent, and the world.
“Sport has the power to transform individuals the lives and lift the spirits of entire nations.
“Tonight, Siya Kolisi and the 2023 World Cup champions have gifted us an extraordinary, inspired and inspiring national achievement that lifts our hearts and hoists our Flag even higher.”
Our captain! 🫡#StrongerTogether #Springboks #RWCFinal #RSAvNZL pic.twitter.com/hg7nQRkyWg
— Springboks (@Springboks) October 28, 2023
Minister in The Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, said: “This victory confirms South Africa’s highest standing in world rugby. The Springboks symbolise the resolve, resilience and unbreakable spirit of South Africans as a nation. Never has a team, which was once at the centre of dividing a nation, has risen time and again to unite and rally the nation behind one flag, a single identity, and the nation brand. The Springboks represent something more than themselves; they unite us in our diversity but one nation. We are proud of the leadership of Captain Siya Kolisi, who led the mighty team to victory. We would also like to appreciate the support of South Africans of all works of life. Supporting our national teams is not just about the game, it’s about forging a collective spirit that extends beyond the field. It’s about instilling a sense of pride in our national identity, reminding us of the incredible strength we possess when we stand together.”
She says the Springbok’s have etched South Africa’s name in the annals of history.
“We are eternally proud of you Bokke! In your team effort, the camaraderie in your camp, and a truly South African vibe you carried, you demonstrated that indeed we are stronger together – you proved that to the more than 62 million of us and millions more from the African continent who stood behind you. We can’t wait to welcome you back home.” said Ntshavheni.
The Webb Ellis is in South Africa’s kant!!
For South Africa 🇿🇦#StrongerTogether #Springboks #RWCFinal #RSAvNZL pic.twitter.com/v5hfD1N7LF
— Springboks (@Springboks) October 28, 2023