The Springbok Women were handed a bruising reality check in Northampton on Sunday, going down 57-10 to France in their final pool match of the Women’s Rugby World Cup. But their campaign is far from over. South Africa has qualified for the quarter-finals, where they’ll meet tournament heavyweights New Zealand at Sandy Park in Exeter next Saturday.
France Too Sharp, Too Clinical
The Bok Women had entered the clash with momentum after strong outings against Brazil and Italy. Hopes were high that they could unsettle France, ranked fourth in the world, in what was billed as a pool decider. Instead, Les Bleues stamped their authority early, running in four first-half tries and effectively putting the game to bed by the break.
Things had started brightly for South Africa. After France’s early score, Byrhandré Dolf slotted a penalty to make it 5-3, giving the Bok Women belief. But the game shifted when centre Chumisa Qawe was shown a yellow card for a high tackle, later upgraded to a 20-minute red. Down a player, South Africa’s defence unraveled as France exploited the gaps with pace and slick handling.
Bright Sparks In A Tough Outing
Despite the scoreboard, there were glimmers of resilience. The so-called “Bomb Squad” bench made an impact after halftime, tightening the contest for a period. And Nadine Roos once again reminded fans of her class, finishing a brilliant solo try in the dying minutes that gave South Africans something to cheer about.
Dolf’s earlier penalty and conversion meant the Bok Women ended with 10 points, but the gulf in experience was clear as France added two late tries to underline their dominance.
Quarter-Final Clash Looms Large
The loss means South Africa will now meet New Zealand — a team with World Cup pedigree and one of the most intimidating line-ups in women’s rugby. The clash in Exeter will test the Bok Women’s ability to reset quickly, with lessons from the France defeat fresh in their minds.
While the task is daunting, the Bok Women have already exceeded expectations by reaching the last eight. For many fans, the hope is less about upsetting the giants and more about seeing continued growth, fight, and the spirit that carried them through earlier rounds.
Fans Back The Bok Women
On social media, the mood was mixed. Some lamented the heavy scoreline, pointing out defensive lapses, while others celebrated the milestone of a quarter-final place. “Results aside, this team is building something special,” one supporter posted on X . Another added: “Nadine Roos is pure magic — proud to see her shine even on a tough day.”
Whatever happens against New Zealand, the Bok Women have already written a new chapter for South African rugby — one filled with resilience, progress, and the sense that a bigger breakthrough is still to come.
Image Source: Women Boks on X
