Springboks Dominate All Blacks to Retain Freedom Cup in Commanding Display

• South Africa retained the Freedom Cup with a world-class performance in Wellington
• The Springboks delivered a commanding display, handing the All Blacks their heaviest home defeat ever
• South Africans celebrated the historic win online, flooding social media with messages of jubilation and pride

The Springboks showcased true world champion form on Saturday, 13 September 2025, in Wellington, dismantling the All Blacks 43-10 in record-breaking style.

From the first whistle, South Africa tore through New Zealand’s defence, leaving the hosts struggling to keep pace.

The emphatic victory served as sweet revenge for last weekend’s narrow 24-17 defeat, with the Springboks asserting their dominance and reminding the rugby world of their unmatched skill and resilience.

The revamped South African squad stormed back from Eden Park disappointment by scoring 36 unanswered points in a relentless second-half surge.

New Zealand had briefly led 10-7 at the break, but the Springboks’ combination of set-piece power and attacking precision left them exposed.

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Cheslin Kolbe starred with two tries, while Damian Willemse, Kwagga Smith, RG Snyman, and Andre Esterhuizen each crossed the line to complete a memorable performance.

Despite debutant Leroy Carter’s early score for the All Blacks, Wellington continued to be a fortress the Springboks were determined to conquer.

The 33-point margin not only marked New Zealand’s heaviest-ever defeat at home but also raises serious questions ahead of the Bledisloe Cup clash with Australia.

As seen in the tweet below:

The Rugby Championship now enters its fifth round with all four teams level on two wins and two losses, setting the stage for a thrilling conclusion to what has already been a standout season.

South Africa’s statement win in Wellington has sent a clear message: the Springboks are far from finished and remain a force to be reckoned with.

Take a look at the moment the Springboks retained the Freedom Cup.

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How did South Africans react?

South Africans lit up social media with posts of jubilation, celebrating the historic victory

@QuadeCooper:

"43-10 is crazy. Hats off to SA! The new Springboks are power and skill. They never used to run even though they were always on the front foot. This is why they’re so strong. To think people were taking shots and writing this team off just a few weeks ago."

@Otsile_seven:

"What a shift by Willemse 🔥 My Player of the Match. Springboks 🔥 #NZLvRSA."

@Rahul_AJ_1990:

"36 unanswered points in that second half! I know we speak a lot about Cheslin Kolbe being the world's best player, but how was Damian Willemse? That must be one of the best performances ever! 🏉"

@Skhokele_Titus:

"This is what it means to show up for your country when it needs you the most. What a soldier. Damian Willemse 🙌🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾."

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Siya Kolisi sends message to Women Boks

Briefly News previously reported that Springboks captain Siya Kolisi has shared a heartfelt message with the South African women’s rugby team.

They are preparing for their historic Rugby World Cup quarter-final against defending champions New Zealand at Sandy Park in Exeter on Saturday, 13 September 2025.

Source: Briefly News