Rugby
South Africa defeated Ireland by 11 points in Dublin, ending their long-standing winless run there. The Springboks capitalised on Irish indiscipline in the second half, with coach Rassie Erasmus saying his side punished lapses and showed mental strength.
South Africa ended a long-standing curse in Dublin with a hard-fought 11-point victory over an often-undisciplined Irish side in their latest test match. The Springboks leaned into their physicality and capitalised on key errors from the hosts, especially in the second half, to secure a win that eluded them in Ireland for years.
Coach Rassie Erasmus praised his squad’s mental resolve, saying that despite the pressure of playing away in a hostile stadium, his team stayed composed and took advantage when Ireland dropped the ball. The game turned in South Africa’s favour following a series of penalties conceded by Ireland, and the Boks’ disciplined play allowed them to build a lead they never relinquished.
The victory in Dublin marks a major achievement for the Springboks and underscores their growing maturity as a side. With their core squad largely intact, they were able to execute set-piece plays and maintain structure under duress, particularly during moments when Ireland pressed for a come-back.
Springbok forwards laid the platform, dominating collisions and ensuring a steady flow of possession, while the backs capitalised on the chances created. Key players stepped up under pressure — their composure in crucial moments was pivotal.
