In a stunning display of resilience, the 14-man South African rugby team produced a spectacular second-half performance to humble France 32-17 at the Stade de France on Saturday.
A Test of Character
The world champions were forced to dig deeper than ever after lock Lood de Jager was shown a red card just before halftime. Playing with a man down for the entire second half and trailing 14-6, the Springboks faced a monumental challenge against a French side desperate for victory.
France had started explosively, with winger Damian Penaud scoring two early tries to become his country's all-time leading try scorer with 40, surpassing Serge Blanco's long-standing record. When De Jager was dismissed for a dangerous tackle on Thomas Ramos, Les Bleus appeared to be in complete control.
The Remarkable Turnaround
Despite their numerical disadvantage, the Springboks displayed incredible composure and physicality. The momentum shifted decisively when France winger Louis Bielle-Biarrey was sin-binned for a deliberate knock-on, giving South Africa the opening they needed.
The visitors capitalised immediately with tries from Cobus Reinach, Andre Esterhuizen, and Grant Williams turning the game on its head. Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, who contributed 13 points with his boot, sealed the remarkable victory with a brilliant individual try, rounding the defence before converting his own score.
Coaches' Reactions and Fallout
South Africa coach Rassie Erasmus praised his team's wisdom and calmness under pressure, telling reporters: "Some say they're getting old. They're getting wiser, calmer."
His French counterpart Fabien Galthie lamented his team's missed opportunities, particularly around the 60-minute mark when they failed to convert three clear chances. France's discipline disintegrated under pressure, condemning them to their fourth consecutive defeat.
The victory extends South Africa's dominance over France, with the Springboks having now won nine of their last ten meetings. France will look to bounce back when they face Fiji in Bordeaux next Saturday, while South Africa travel to face Italy.
