In the final round of this year's Rugby Championship, South Africa needed only a victory to secure their first title in a complete six-round tournament. However, despite this win, they did not regain the top position in the World Rankings. That's correct, despite their significant victory, Ireland remains number one in the latest rankings.
Mariette Adams recently articulated in an article that the Springboks' unexpected 29-28 loss to Argentina in Santiago del Estero had significant consequences. Notably, it ended their 13-month tenure as the top-ranked team in World Rugby, ceding the position to Ireland. This shift occurred because the defeat cost the Springboks 1.81 rating points, dropping their total from 93.58 to 91.77, while Ireland, with a rating of 92.12, ascended to the number one spot by default.
South Africa started the game with incredible intensity, securing a 7-0 lead within the first 40 minutes. Quick hands from Manie Libbok set up Fassi, who broke through four defenders to score the hosts' opening try of the evening..
Fassi scored the game's opening try, culminating from a period of sustained pressure by the hosts, which saw him slice through four defenders to touch down.
Just six minutes later, South Africa added a second try through PSDT, who utilized his power and reach to extend over the ruck and ground the ball.
At 14-0, Argentina responded with a brilliant try by their fly-half, Tomas Albornoz, marking the Pumas' sole try of the match.
Undeterred, the hosts immediately hit back with Fassi crossing the line once more.
The Boks' dominance was further cemented when Mateo Carreras received a yellow card for dangerous play, reducing Los Pumas to 14 men before Fassi's subsequent try.
By halftime, South Africa had built a commanding 27-7 lead. The second half saw Pieter-Steph du Toit, Malcom, and Jesse each scoring tries, marking their first and second tries of the match, respectively.
The Boks made a resounding return to be the best in the world as they clinched to rugby championship trophy with this win. Congratulations South Africa and a special mention must go to Eben Etzabeth for becoming the most capped Springbok of all time.
These images showcase the tries scored by both teams. In my opinion, it was a world-class performance from the World Champions, and I wouldn't change anything regarding game management. They knew precisely when to attempt a try and when to opt for the three points. Argentina simply had no response to the Boks' physical dominance and scoreboard pressure. Final score South Africa 48 - 7 Argentina.
The Boks will take a well-earned respite from international rugby ahead of their European tour, starting with a match against Scotland on November 10th. This will be followed by a game against England six days later, and the concluding match against Wales a week thereafter, wrapping up their international season for 2024 as they look forward to the opponents they will face in June and July of 2025.
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