Rugby
Down to 14 men but bursting with defiance, the Springboks stunned France 32–17 in Paris. Siya Kolisi marked his 100th Test with humility, crediting his teammates for a victory that showcased South Africa’s grit, unity, and world-class composure under fire.
In the electric hum of the Stade de France, the Springboks reminded the world why they are rugby’s heartbeat. Reduced to 14 men after Lood de Jager’s early red card, South Africa refused to fold — instead, they dug deeper, turning adversity into art, chaos into control, and walked away 32–17 victors over a stunned French side.
The win carried extra weight for Siya Kolisi, who marked his 100th Test in green and gold with a performance that embodied courage and humility. “I am nothing without the boys,” he said after the final whistle, a grin softening his battle-worn face. “They made this possible.”
Trailing narrowly at halftime, the Boks surged in the second half. The pack dominated scrums and mauls, while Grant Williams’ speed and Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu’s poise tilted the match decisively in their favour. Feinberg-Mngomezulu’s try in the dying minutes sealed both the win and his Player of the Match honours.
The French crowd, loud and confident at kickoff, fell silent as the South Africans absorbed pressure and counterpunched with precision. Each tackle, each kick, each roar from the Bok bench carried the defiance of a nation accustomed to adversity — and mastery in overcoming it.
Kolisi’s century symbolised more than longevity; it reflected leadership rooted in humility and connection. “This victory is for everyone back home who believes in us,” he said. “We fight for them every time we wear this jersey.”
