A proud day for the Springbok Women, says coach de Bruin

The Springbok Women made history in York on Sunday with a thrilling 29-24 victory over Italy, marking their first-ever win against the Europeans and securing a place in the Women’s Rugby World Cup play-offs for the first time.

The result also means South Africa will move into the top ten of the World Rugby rankings for the first time, adding even more significance to the achievement.

Head coach Swys de Bruin was filled with pride after watching his team deliver a resilient performance.

“I am so proud of everyone; this was really a team effort, not only from all here in England but also our support structures back home, and this performance justifies the belief SA Rugby had in us,” said De Bruin.

Italy twice came back to draw level, showing their Six Nations experience, but South Africa refused to back down. De Bruin credited the tactical execution from his coaching staff as a key factor in the win.

“We had a plan on how to beat Italy, and credit to my coaches, as it worked to a tee. Our first phase helped us score some tries, while we also outplayed them in the backs with some delightful tries. We improved on every positive statistic out there, and we are only two rounds into this tournament. It is such a relief, and one can only thank God that it worked as planned.”

Team captain Nolusindiso Booi, playing in her fourth World Cup, called the victory a magical moment for the squad and a tribute to those who came before them.

“The performance was magic, we never stopped fighting, knowing what was at stake,” said Booi. “This win was for all who came before us, those who paved the way. Look at where we started and look where we are now, in the top ten of the world game. This is just so rewarding for everyone, especially the coaches who prepared us for this moment.”

For Booi, the achievement carries personal weight, as she prepares to close the chapter on her international career after this tournament.

“I will not play rugby again at this level after this tournament, and to now have won two pool games in a row and qualify for the quarter-finals is just such a humble feeling of gratitude. We worked so hard for this, and now we finally reap some rewards,” she added.

The Springbok Women will now turn their attention to Northampton, where they will face France, the other unbeaten team in the pool. Their journey so far has not only reshaped the history books but also ignited belief that South Africa’s women’s rugby has firmly arrived on the global stage.