Rassie Erasmus Proud of Record Win Over All Blacks, Sends Warning to Springboks Players

• Rassie Erasmus has shared his thoughts after the Springboks responded to their defeat last weekend against the All Blacks of New Zealand
• The South African rugby national team handed New Zealand their heaviest home defeat while they retained the Freedom Cup
• Springboks fans also commented on Erasmus' reaction to his team's victory over the All Blacks on social media

Rassie Erasmus reflected on the Springboks’ performance following their victory over New Zealand as they retained the Freedom Cup title for the first time.

After a tough 24-17 loss to the All Blacks in the first round last weekend, the Springboks fought back in the second round to earn a well-deserved win over their bitter rivals.

Erasmus made several changes to the team lineup ahead of this match, admitting he was disappointed with the performance in the previous week's loss at Eden Park.

Erasmus reacts to Springboks' win

Despite the victory, Erasmus remained modest. He reflected on the team's past struggles.

“We’ve experienced being on the wrong side of a heavy defeat, like the 57-0 loss against them, and they showed us respect then by not rubbing it in. Now we’ve managed to end their streak at Eden Park, and while we’ll gladly accept this result, our satisfaction comes from how we played.”

The Springbok coach was also impressed with the contributions of players beyond those on the field:

“What really pleased me was the effort, not only from those on the field but also from the squad members who didn’t feature. Their preparation and input helped shape the team’s performance, and it was great to see the players on the park step up and show they can handle the highest level.”

Erasmus acknowledged some injury concerns but focused on the most pressing issues:

“We’re dealing with a few injuries, but the most worrying at this stage are Lood (de Jager) and Aphelele (Fassi). We’ll know more about the severity soon.”

The Springboks' victory may have propelled them back to the top of the world rankings, but Erasmus was quick to warn his players that the tough road ahead remains unchanged.

"It doesn’t change the tough road ahead, especially with Argentina next on the schedule."

Reactions as Erasmus warns Boks stars

KaDywili 💪🏿 said:

"Let's be honest and I hope this is a huge lesson, SA Rugby will not progress as long as we have static inside and outside center!! The ball needs to get to the wing play. Damian De Allende and Kriel are static. Libbok, Willemse, & Moodie offer dynamism hence we had wing play!"

BokScrum shared:

"I'll take the Freedom Cup. I'm happy. But, do expect 2 solid wins over Argentina in all honesty 😅"

AfriCanadians reacted:

"True stuff! Watched the 🐆 vs 🦘 game just before the Bokke........ and 🇦🇷 imo looked equally dangerous to the Bokke yesterday..... in their win ! No walk-overs there."

HowellJethro commented:

"Please lets stay humble and be ready for Argentina. They are playing fantastic rugby. Thsnks to New Zealand for being great hosts."

Heth added:

"Rassie, give credit where it's due. You cant keep crapping on the guys, man."

Kolisi sends message to Women's Boks

Briefly News also reported that Springboks captain Siya Kolisi has shared a 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.

Proofreading by Kelly Lippke, copy editor at Briefly.co.za.

Source: Briefly News