Rassie Erasmus Explained Why He Was Sad for Some Players Despite Springboks’ Win Over Italy

• Rassie Erasmus has explained why he was sad for certain players despite the Springboks' win over Italy
• The World champions played most of the showdown with lesser men, but the Azzuri failed to capitalise on it
• Fans also shared their thoughts on South Africa's performance against the European nation in Turin on social media

Rassie Erasmus has come out to react to the Springboks' win over Italy in their ongoing Castle Lager Outgoing Tour Test at the Allianz Stadium in Turin on Saturday, November 15, 2025.

The South African rugby national team came into the game fresh from their victory over France in Paris last weekend and made it three wins in a row despite having a player sent off for the second week running.

Erasmus reacts after Springboks' win

Erasmus said he was proud of how the players adapted to secure the result and make it three wins from three on tour, but he remained saddened for individuals like Siya Kolisi and Ben-Jason Dixon, who finally received opportunities yet had to bear the brunt of difficult moments.

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Rassie Erasmus Explains Siya Kolisi’s Substitution Against Italy, Making It Second Game in a Row

The Springboks' head coach explained that although the whole group, including those not playing, kept making plans and adjusting, it felt unfair because the team prides itself on changing tackle height and avoiding head contact despite receiving several red cards, with players like Makazole Mapimpi and Jasper Wiese receiving six-week suspensions.

Erasmus still believes the game is suffering, while these challenges have made the squad tighter and more desperate in their efforts. Although he is happy with the result, he remains hurt for the players who must carry the consequences of accidental actions.

Here is what fans are saying about the Springboks' performance against Italy in Turin.

Lancefr_bro said:

"How do we keep doing this, man? Such dominance with one man down? At some point, it was two men down? We’re just unstoppable 😭🙌🏽"

Glenda wrote:

"Proud of Bokke. A marvellous fight from singing the anthem to the shock on Manie's face at game end. Love the Bokke."

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Springboks shine despite red card, crush Italy in convincing win

Vlamkop shared:

"Well done, Boks! Showing World Rugby there b...s..t officiating won't stop us! Huge kudos to all the players today! 😍🥰."

Jordan_Delurey commented:

"This South Africa team are so special. I'm from Ireland, but it is an absolute joy to watch them ... 14 men and beating France and Italy with ease... exceptional."

Riki Louw reacted:

"I just want to sincerely thank @worldrugbymedia for allowing us to practice with 14 and 13 men on the field. It just makes us better. Now we know, and you know. Looking forward to the next episode next week.😂😂😂."

Murray Booth added:

"Shame, poor ref! Tried really hard to win that for Italy! 😂🤣😂🤣 Bokke 1 man down, nowhere near their best, and still dominate like that! @stranners, why do you hate the Boks so much? There is impartial, then just whatever you are."

Erasmus on bold substitution vs France

Briefly News also reported that Eramus explained the reason behind his bold substitution in South Africa's victory over France.

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Kaizer Chiefs legend speaks out on Hugo Broos’ decision to snub Thembinkosi Lorch

The South African rugby coach decided to sub off some of the veterans of the team, including the captain, Siya Kolisi, who was making his 100th Test cap in the match.

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

Source: Briefly News