Junior Springboks crowned world champions after gritty win over France

South Africa's Junior Springboks were crowned World Rugby U20 champions after defeating France 16-5 in a tense final at Mikheil Meskhi Stadium in Tbilisi, Georgia.

Flyhalf Yaqeen Ahmed was instrumental in the victory, contributing 11 points through three penalties and a conversion as the Junior Boks gradually gained control of the contest.

With the match still in the balance during the closing stages, centre Markus Muller crossed for the only try of the game, sealing the victory and capping a flawless tournament for the South Africans.

The triumph completed an unbeaten campaign and stretched the team's impressive winning run to 18 consecutive matches, underlining the strength of the country's emerging rugby talent.

Head coach Kevin Foote praised the character shown by his players, describing the victory as a special moment for both the squad and the nation.

"This means everything to the players, the management and South Africa. The resilience the team showed throughout the tournament and especially in the final was outstanding," Foote said after the match.

Celebrations erupted among South African supporters, with many hailing the result as further evidence of a golden period for South African rugby.

Sports Minister Gayton McKenzie was among the first to congratulate the team, posting a message of praise for the players and coaching staff.

“Congratulations coach Kevin Foote and the Junior Springboks on a hard-fought 16–5 victory over France! What courage, what pride! You defended that title like true champions! No DNA, just RSA!”

The latest success adds another major trophy to South Africa's rugby cabinet and reinforces optimism about the future of the sport, with several members of the Junior Springbok squad now expected to push for higher honours in the senior ranks.