Springboks extend Wales' losing streak with 45-12 victory
Eben Etzebeth was one of the try scorer for South Africa
©PA
Wales 12-45 South Africa, Cardiff
South Africa delivered a powerful performance to defeat Wales 45-12 at Cardiff's Principality Stadium on Saturday, extending the hosts' record losing streak to 12 matches.
The Springboks demonstrated their dominance with a blend of physicality and precision, leaving Wales struggling to keep up.
The Springboks set the tone early with relentless pressure, capitalizing on Wales’ defensive lapses to secure a 24-0 lead by halftime.
South Africa’s pack dominated the breakdowns and set-pieces, laying a strong foundation for their backs to shine.
Flyhalf Handré Pollard orchestrated the attack with pinpoint accuracy, contributing points with his kicking and passing game. Tries from Kurt-Lee Arendse and Cheslin Kolbe showcased the visitors’ attacking flair, while their defense stifled Wales’ attempts to gain any momentum.
Wales briefly rallied in the second half with two tries, showing flashes of resilience, but it wasn’t enough to disrupt South Africa’s rhythm.
The Springboks quickly regained control, adding further tries through Damian de Allende and Makazole Mapimpi to seal the victory.
The loss marks Wales’ 12th consecutive defeat, the worst run in their 143-year history.
Under pressure head coach Warren Gatland acknowledged the growing challenges facing his side as they search for answers to turn their fortunes around.
Team line up:
Wales: Blair Murray; Josh Hathaway, Max Llewellyn, Ben Thomas, Rio Dyer; Sam Costelow, Ellis Bevan; Nicky Smith, Dewi Lake (c), Archie Griffin, Will Rowlands, Christ Tchiunza, Jac Morgan, Taine Plumtree.
Reserves: Ryan Elias, Kemsley Mathias, Kieron Assiratti, Freddie Thomas, Tommy Reffell, Rhodri Williams, Eddie James, Owen Watkin.
South Africa: Aphelele Fassie; Cheslin Kolbe, Jesse Kriel, Damian de Allende, Kurt-Lee Arendse; Jordan Hendrikse, Jaden Hendrikse; Thomas du Toit, Johan Grobellar, Wilco Louw, Eben Eztebeth; Franco Mostert, Siya Kolisi (c), Elrigh Louw, Jasper Wiese.
Reserves: Malcolm Marx, Gerhard Steenkamp, Vincent Koch, Marco van Staden, RG Snyman, Cameron Hanekom, Cobus Reinach, Handre Pollard.
