The Springbok Women were congratulated on Monday for reaching the Rugby World Cup quarterfinals for the first time with a performance that “embodies the spirit of South Africa”, said Mr Mark Alexander, the president of the South African Rugby Union.
The Bok Women followed up a 66-6 win over Brazil in their first pool game with a 29-24 victory over Italy – a team ranked four places above them – to clinch a first appearance in the knockout stages of the showpiece tournament at the fifth attempt later this month in England.
𝐇𝐈𝐒𝐓𝐎𝐑𝐘 𝐅𝐎𝐑 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐒𝐏𝐑𝐈𝐍𝐆𝐁𝐎𝐊 𝐖𝐎𝐌𝐄𝐍 🤩🇿🇦
— SuperSport Rugby (@SSRugby) August 31, 2025
South Africa are through to the last eight for the first time 👏👏#HereForHer | #RWC2025 pic.twitter.com/d0MP8plmDE
Mr Alexander praised the work of the players and coaching staff for delivering a “remarkable victory”.
“On behalf of the South African Rugby Union, I extend my deepest admiration and pride,” he said.
“You have made history, and you have made us proud. It was a performance that transcended sport. It was not only a remarkable victory – it was a demonstration of what it means to be South African.
“You showed grit, determination, and belief in one another, and have inspired the whole nation. You showed us once again that rugby is more than a game for us – it is a force for unity, pride, and hope.”
The Springbok Women led from the first minute, after a try by No 8 Aseza Hele, but twice saw the Six Nations regulars level the scores before closing out victory with a fifth try, by Sinazo Mcatshulwa, in the 74th minute.
Mr Alexander said the performances in England would inspire the next generation of young players.
“Your courage on the field will have lit a fire in the hearts of young girls and women players everywhere in SA to dream of wearing the green and gold,” he said.
“This team carries the flag with dignity and heart. You played not just for the scoreboard, but for every community in South Africa. Your performance was a statement of identity – of who we are and what we stand for.”
A special message from Rassie Erasmus and RG Snyman 🗣️
— SuperSport Rugby (@SSRugby) September 1, 2025
Despite the game kicking off in the early hours of the morning in New Zealand, the Springboks were never missing the Springbok Women making history at #RWC2025 👏#SSRugby | #HereForHer pic.twitter.com/NnwZBaQdvk
The Bok Women complete their pool programme with a match against world No 4, France – ranked eight places above them at the start of the tournament – at Franklin’s Gardens in Northampton at 5:45pm (SA time) on Sunday.