The Springboks made history on Saturday night, clinching back-to-back Rugby Championship titles for the first time after a thrilling 29-27 victory over Argentina at Allianz Stadium.
The reigning world champions finished the tournament on 19 points after six matches, edging out the All Blacks to secure the title by +57 points’ difference. New Zealand had briefly moved top of the log earlier in the day after beating the Wallabies 28-14 in rain-soaked Perth, but the Boks’ narrow win over Los Pumas sealed the crown.
Springboks Hold Nerve to Make History
The Boks entered the clash knowing that a simple win — even without a bonus point — would be enough to retain the Rugby Championship for the first time in their history.
Playing at a neutral venue in London, with over 200,000 South African supporters based in the city, the atmosphere felt like a home game for the champions. Coming off last week’s victory in Durban, Rassie Erasmus’ side were determined to complete the double over Los Pumas.
Feinberg-Mngomezulu Shines, Bok Pack Dominates
Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu was the standout in that match, scoring a record 37 points — the highest tally by any Springbok in a single match. His accurate boot and composure under pressure kept South Africa within touching distance during a tense first half.
Despite an early setback with Canan Moodie sent to the sin bin for a head clash, the Boks clawed back momentum. Cobus Reinach grabbed two tries while Malcolm Marx powered over for a brace of his own, with the Springbok scrum and set-piece dominance proving decisive.
Argentina fought bravely through Bautista Delguy and Agustin Moyano, who both scored late tries to set up a nervy finish, but South Africa held firm to close out the win.
Springboks Crowned Double Champions
The victory confirms the Springboks as not only back-to-back Rugby World Cup champions but also back-to-back Rugby Championship winners — an achievement that cements their status as the most dominant team in world rugby today.
With the All Blacks finishing second on 19 points and Argentina battling hard until the end, the 2025 Rugby Championship once again showcased fierce rivalries and world-class performances.
Scorers:
Argentina 27 (13) – Tries: Bautista Delguy (2), Rodrigo Isgro. Conversions: Santiago Carreras (3). Penalty goals: Carreras (2).
Springboks 29 (10) – Tries: Cobus Reinach (2), Malcolm Marx (2). Conversions: Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu (3). Penalty goal: Feinberg-Mngomezulu.
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