Springboks beat All Blacks 33-26 to level series

South Africa 33-26 New Zealand, Cape Town

South Africa levelled the series against New Zealand with a fierce 33-26 win in Cape Town, producing a much more direct and powerful performance after their defeat in the opening Test.

The Springboks were not flawless, but they were physical from the start and built enough of a lead to survive a strong All Blacks comeback. The win leaves the four-match series level at 1-1 heading into the third Test in Johannesburg.

Erasmus Makes Late Front-Row Change

Rassie Erasmus made another bold selection move before kick-off, changing his entire starting front row around an hour before the match. Gerhard Steenekamp, Deon Fourie and Thomas du Toit started, with Ox Nché, Malcolm Marx and Wilco Louw moving to the bench.

The change had a major impact before half-time. Nché and Marx were introduced after 36 minutes and quickly helped win penalties that gave South Africa the platform for a crucial Siya Kolisi try.

Kriel Sets Early Tone

The Springboks made a powerful start. After Jordie Barrett failed to find enough distance with a clearance from the kick-off, South Africa attacked from the resulting lineout. Their maul went forward with purpose, and Jesse Kriel crossed inside the opening two minutes.

New Zealand responded in the 16th minute with a sharp attacking try. After a series of quick passes, Will Jordan found space on the right and released Cam Roigard inside for the All Blacks’ first score.

South Africa soon went back in front through a Cheslin Kolbe penalty before their maul again caused problems. This time Damian de Allende finished from close range to stretch the lead.

All Blacks Stay In The Fight

New Zealand hit back again with another dangerous attacking move. Ardie Savea broke through the middle before Damian McKenzie was sent clear on the angle to score in the right-hand corner.

But South Africa finished the half strongly. After the bench front row helped win two important penalties, Kolisi went over for a key try that pushed the Springboks to a 24-14 lead at half-time.

South Africa stretched their lead early in the second half as Kolbe punished New Zealand’s penalties from the tee. Marx then won a trademark breakdown penalty, giving Kolbe another chance to extend the advantage.

The Springboks were happy to protect their lead for long spells. Eben Etzebeth came up with a crucial lineout steal as New Zealand threatened to build momentum around the hour mark.

Leroy Carter’s pace on the left brought the All Blacks back into the contest, cutting the gap to 11 points. But Marx again delivered at the breakdown, and Kolbe added another penalty to give South Africa breathing space at 33-19.

Savea powered over late to set up a tense finish, but the Springboks held firm to complete a strong response and level the series.