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Rugby Union12 Mar 20262 min read

South Africa Claims 2023 Rugby World Cup With 12-11 Victory

South Africa defeated New Zealand 12-11 in a thrilling Rugby World Cup 2023 final on October 28. England secured third place with a 26-23 victory over Argentina in the bronze medal match.

Source: sportsmole.co.uk
South Africa Claims 2023 Rugby World Cup With 12-11 Victory
Image via sportsmole.co.uk

Key Takeaways

  • 1.The Springboks secured their fourth World Cup title in what proved to be one of the tournament's most dramatic encounters.
  • 2.The Springboks' narrow victory over the All Blacks demonstrated the fine margins that often decide rugby's biggest prizes.
  • 3.The close nature of several key matches highlighted the increasing competitiveness at the highest level of international rugby.

South Africa emerged as champions of the 2023 Rugby World Cup after defeating New Zealand 12-11 in a nail-biting final at Stade de France on Saturday, October 28.

The Springboks secured their fourth World Cup title in what proved to be one of the tournament's most dramatic encounters. New Zealand's Barrett scored in the 59th minute, while South Africa's Subotic found the try line in the 74th minute in the closely contested finale.

The semi-finals had set up this compelling final, with South Africa edging England 16-15 in a tense encounter on October 21. England managed scores through Brooks (72nd minute) and Kraft (87th minute), but it wasn't enough to overcome the Springboks, who secured their place in the final with Snyman crossing the line in the 69th minute.

Rugby stadium with packed crowd during night match, players on field
Rugby stadium with packed crowd during night match, players on field

New Zealand's path to the final was more emphatic, as they demolished Argentina 44-6 on October 20. The All Blacks dominated with tries from Jordan (11th, 62nd, and 74th minutes), Barrett (17th minute), Frizell (40th and 49th minutes), and Smith (42nd minute). Argentina could only manage late consolation scores from Kachunga (60th minute) and Saglik (90th minute).

In the third-place playoff on Friday, October 27, England claimed the bronze medal with a 26-23 victory over Argentina. The match showcased the competitiveness of both teams, with Argentina's Cubelli (36th minute) and Carreras (42nd minute) finding the try line, while their opponents responded through efforts from Earl (8th minute) and Dan (44th minute).

Rugby players in a tackle during match with Brumbies player carrying ball
Rugby players in a tackle during match with Brumbies player carrying ball

The tournament's conclusion marked another chapter in South Africa's rugby dominance, adding to their previous World Cup victories. The Springboks' narrow victory over the All Blacks demonstrated the fine margins that often decide rugby's biggest prizes.

Looking Ahead

Looking Ahead

Looking Ahead

With the 2023 tournament now complete, attention will turn to future rugby competitions and the development of the sport globally. The close nature of several key matches highlighted the increasing competitiveness at the highest level of international rugby.