Black Ferns crush South Africa 46–17 to reach semis

New Zealand 46-17 South Africa, Exeter

New Zealand booked their place in the Rugby World Cup semi-finals with a dominant 46–17 win over South Africa in Exeter.

After a balanced first half that ended 10–10, the Black Ferns unleashed their firepower in the second half, scoring six tries to overwhelm the Springbok Women.

South Africa began with intensity and were rewarded in the 20th minute when captain Babalwa Latsha powered over from close range. Byrhandré Dolf could not add the extras, leaving the score at 5–0.

New Zealand hit back quickly. In the 25th minute, Theresa Setefano finished a sweeping move out wide, though Renee Holmes pushed her conversion wide. Just four minutes later, Braxton Sorensen-McGee touched down to put New Zealand in front 10–5.

The Springboks showed resilience and levelled the contest on the stroke of halftime. Aphiwe Ngwevu crossed in the 40th minute, but Dolf’s conversion missed again, leaving the sides locked at 10–10 at the break.

New Zealand struck immediately after the restart. Renee Holmes scored in the 41st minute to make it 15–10, though she missed her kick. Sorensen-McGee added her second try just three minutes later, stretching the lead to 20–10.

Kaipo Olsen-Baker then took control in the forwards. She powered over in the 47th minute, before grabbing a second in the 54th minute. Holmes converted the latter, pushing the advantage to 32–10.

Holmes was back on the scoreboard in the 65th minute, this time converting duties were handed to Sorensen-McGee, who slotted the kick in the 66th minute. At 39–10, the Black Ferns were out of reach.

South Africa rallied late, with Lerato Makua scoring in the 76th minute and Dolf finally adding a conversion to cut the deficit to 39–17. But New Zealand had the final word: Katelyn Vahaakolo crossed in the 80th minute, with Sorensen-McGee converting to seal a 46–17 victory.

New Zealand’s eight-try haul showcased their depth and attacking variety. While South Africa impressed in patches, especially in the first half, they were undone by poor goalkicking and the relentless pace of the Black Ferns after halftime. The result sends New Zealand into the last four with momentum, while South Africa depart with pride after a spirited campaign.