Rassie Erasmus Praises Boks’ Fighting Spirit After Emotional Triumph Against All Blacks
- Rassie Erasmus has led the Springboks to a resounding win over the All Blacks of New Zealand to retain the Freedom Cup title on Saturday
- The South African rugby coach hailed Springboks players for their performance against their bitter rivals in Wellington
- The Springboks' head coach also referred to the injury issues while explaining the adjustment he made in the team
Springboks head coach Rassie Erasmus has praised his players after South Africa’s commanding win over the All Blacks of New Zealand, which secured the Freedom Cup title on Saturday, September 13, 2025.
Source: Getty Images
The South African rugby coach was left disappointed after the Boks lost the first round at Eden Park last weekend, but in the second round, they thrashed the home side 43-10 in Wellington.
Erasmus hails Springboks Stars
When asked if the Springboks were a “different team” after the break, Rassie Erasmus pointed to the numerous injuries and substitutions, explaining that adjustments were necessary. He noted that the players themselves took charge of these plans during halftime.
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Pressed on comparisons between the side that played on Saturday and the one that lost to the All Blacks the previous week, Erasmus downplayed the contrast, reminding that the Springboks boast a pool of 45 quality players and showered praises on those who played today.
“The guys who played today certainly raised their hands, but we also have excellent players who weren’t on the field. We’re proud of the entire group,” he said.
Erasmus also expressed gratitude to the South African supporters, praising the sea of green and gold in the stands for backing the team so passionately.
Siya Kolisi hails Erasmus, other coaches
Springbok captain Siya Kolisi echoed Erasmus’ positive view of the team’s performance against the All Blacks, noting that the players concentrated fully on their responsibilities throughout the game. Kolisi highlighted the trust that the coaches placed in the players, explaining that they were given the freedom to express themselves on the field rather than being restricted by rigid instructions.
He also mentioned that the team was encouraged not to fear mistakes, after making many in the previous game, emphasising the importance of following their game plans and maintaining self-belief.
To conclude, the 34-year-old captain praised the coaches for making strategic changes to the lineup, including giving opportunities to less experienced players. He explained that the regular players supported these newcomers, which helped the squad remain united and cohesive as a team.
"They picked guys who haven’t been playing a lot, and the regular players stuck behind them all the way, and that contributes to us being tight as a team,” the Springboks captain said.
Source: Getty Images
The Springboks' next match will be against Argentina in the Rugby Championship later this month.
SA win dedicated to Boks legend
Briefly News also reported that a Springboks star dedicated South Africa's win over the All Blacks of New Zealand to a late rugby legend who died a few days ago.
The former Springboks player died a few days before the tie against New Zealand in Wellington.
Source: Briefly News
