South Africa Crushes France’s World Cup Dreams in Epic Quarter-final Battle

A Historic Clash at Stade de France

South Africa crushed France’s hopes of a maiden World Cup title in a contest for the ages, emerging as 29-28 winners in a furious and vintage quarter-final. The Springboks’ experience proved decisive against a French team playing their first knockout game under coach Fabien Galthie’s four-year tenure.

Drama and Intensity

The first half will be remembered as one of the greatest ever witnessed, featuring an unbelievable display of pace, physicality and skill from both sides. The Stade de France has arguably never hosted two better games of rugby in one weekend, with the match going down in history as perhaps the greatest possible rugby contest.

Both teams scored three tries in the scintillating start. While France’s tries showcased their magnificent attack, the Springboks’ three came against the run of play. The hosts appeared world-class in the opening minutes, looking every bit the new favourites for the title following Ireland’s exit.

Decisive Moments

The defending champions secured victory through Eben Etzebeth’s powerful try in the 67th minute. Handre Pollard extended South Africa’s lead with a penalty, and although Thomas Ramos reduced the deficit to one point, the holders managed to hold on for a thrilling victory.

Aftermath and Future Prospects

The defending champions displayed one of their most resilient performances to eliminate the highly rated French team in front of nearly 80,000 fans at Stade de France. French flanker Charles Ollivon expressed the team’s devastation, acknowledging the heartbreak for all their supporters.

The victory sets up a semi-final clash between South Africa and England, scheduled for the following Saturday, while New Zealand will face Argentina in the first semi-final on Friday.