The Springboks made a strong statement in the 2025 Quilter Nations Series by defeating France 3217 at the Stade de France. The match showcased their determination following their narrow victory over France in the quarterfinals of the preceding world tournament. The encounter featured a difficult first half, exacerbated by a controversial red card, but was brought to life by dynamic performances from the bench players.
Player Ratings for the Springboks Against France
Star Performers
- Jasper Wiese
- Cobus Reinach
- Sacha FeinbergMngomezulu
- Andre Esterhuizen
- Grant Williams
Overall Team Performance
The Springboks displayed resilience and tactical prowess, even when faced with adversity. Despite entering the match with a penalty disadvantage after Lood de Jager’s red card, the team managed to rally together and assert their dominance.
Key Player Ratings
| Player | Rating | Key Contribution |
|---|---|---|
| Damian Willemse | 6 | Peripheral presence overall; substituted after 60 minutes. |
| Cheslin Kolbe | 6 | Defensive coverage and a crucial tackle on BielleBiarrey. |
| Siya Kolisi | 5 | Inconspicuous first half; replaced to strengthen pack. |
| Eben Etzebeth | 5 | Mixed contribution without great influence on the game. |
Game Highlights
The red card awarded to Lood de Jager for a high tackle early in the match put the Springboks under pressure. Yet, the team’s excellent substitutions helped regain control.
Standout moments included Wiese’s formidable carries and Reinach’s impressive try, which lifted the team’s spirits. FeinbergMngomezulu and Esterhuizen’s substitutions proved crucial in turning the game in their favor.
This victory reaffirms the Springboks’ status as reigning world champions, showcasing both their depth and resilience on the international stage.