APA-Johannesburg (South Africa) South Africa etched its name in history books on Saturday night by winning the Rugby World Cup title for a record fourth time following a 12-11 victory against New Zealand’s All Blacks at Stade de France in Paris.
In a thrilling final watched by thousands in the Paris stadium – including President Cyril Ramaphosa – the Springboks starved off a late charge by the All Blacks to secure victory.
This was the second Rugby World Cup title in a row for the South Africans who also won the tournament in 2019.
Ramaphosa congratulated the Springboks on their Rugby World Cup 2023 victory over New Zealand, “which makes South Africa the first country to win this championship four times.”
South Africa has won the tournament in 1995, 2007, 2019 and 2023, followed by New Zealand which has been victorious three times (1987, 2011 and 2015) and Australia twice (1991 and 1999). England won the tournament in 2003.
He said the victory, the third time the Springboks won a match by a single point during the just-ended tournament, was testament to the importance of working together as a team
“Stronger Together is a belief that came to life for Springbok supporters all around our country and continent, and the world,” Ramaphosa said.
He added: “Sport has the power to transform individuals the lives and lift the spirits of entire nations.”
JN/APA