Thriller in Paris: South Africa knock out Rugby World Cup hosts

Almost 80,000 fans did not help France reach the semi-finals. There we will see England vs South Africa and Argentina vs New Zealand. Use the APK download Pin Up to bet on these matches.

France was close to victory

A seismic clash between two rugby heavyweights lived up to its billing, as South Africa’s battle-hardened warriors weathered a ferocious French storm to emerge 29-28 winners in a classic World Cup quarterfinal on Sunday.

The Springboks dug deep into their vast reservoir of experience to tame France’s young bucks, who were playing their first knockout match under coach Fabien Galthie’s revitalizing tenure.

Tries from the unlikely source of winger Kurt-Lee Arendse, stalwart center Damian de Allende, electric Cheslin Kolbe and lock enforcer Eben Etzebeth propelled South Africa, along with the unerring goal-kicking of veteran flyhalf Handre Pollard.

France stayed in touch through pushover tries by prop Cyril Baille and hooker Peato Mauvaka and 13 points off the tee from fullback Thomas Ramos, but will rue missed chances to capture a maiden World Cup crown.

First half

We knew it would go down to the wire and we had to finish every opportunity. Unfortunately we couldn’t convert pressure into points at key moments», – said French team manager Raphael Ibanez.

South Africa captain Siya Kolisi praised his team’s composure and bench depth: «The replacements made a massive impact for us».

A breathless first half showcased French flair and South African physicality. France flew out of the blocks, moving the ball slickly to slice through for an early try by Baille.

But the experienced Springboks responded ruthlessly. Pollard’s clever dinks over the top caused problems and handed try-scoring chances to Arendse and stalwart center De Allende.

Dynamic hooker Mauvaka crashed over from close range to keep France in touch, but searing pace allowed livewire winger Kolbe to round his man for a momentum-shifting five-pointer right on halftime, handing South Africa a 26-22 advantage.

Second half

The second stanza descended into trench warfare, with South Africa’s physical dominance gradually overpowering tiring French legs. Lock Etzebeth barged over shortly after the break to extend the lead.

Pollard’s steady boot landed penalties to prove the difference, as France’s inexperienced young guns struggled to unlock the Springbok defense. A late penalty from Ramos gave France hope at 29-28, but South Africa held firm in a nerve-jangling finish.

In the end, veteran savvy triumphed over youthful exuberance in an epic worthy of the storied rivalry between the two rugby giants.

We gave everything, but couldn’t get over the line today, – said Ibanez, ruing missed lineout chances and handling errors at crucial moments. – These are the fine margins at the highest level».

Next step

The Springboks now advance to a blockbuster semi-final against England, looking to capture South Africa’s fourth World Cup title.

France must regroup after a heartbreaking end to their comeback campaign under visionary coach Galthie. After ending a decade of underachievement, Les Bleus had arrived in Japan with genuine belief they could capture a maiden World Cup trophy.

Despite the painful defeat, Galthie and his exciting young squad have restored pride for French rugby. With another four years until the next World Cup, they will be genuine contenders on home soil in 2023.

«The future is bright for this France team. Today will hurt immensely, but we will grow from it», – said Ibanez.

For South Africa, attention turns to arch-nemesis England as the Springboks look to repeat their final triumph from 2019. Coach Jacques Nienaber will need to reenergize his battle-weary troops after an immense physical effort to subdue France.

It was another colossal Test match between the two teams. To win tournaments, you must win these types of games», – said Nienaber.

After conquering their traditional French hoodoo, the Springboks will back themselves to continue finding a way. But England poses another formidable obstacle in their quest for back-to-back World Cup glory.