Swys de Bruin: 'They made a difference for millions of girls in South Africa'

It was a match where once again South Africa Women proved people wrong. Many predicted a cricket score line as the world number tens took on the reigning world champions in New Zealand for the first quarter-final of the 2025 Rugby World Cup.

And despite the final score ending 46-17, and the fact that the Black Ferns march on to the semi final, the Springboks scored three tries and leave England with their heads held high. Springbok head coach Swys de Bruin spoke of his pride after his side’s first ever knock-out game at a World Cup.

“I’m so proud. Look at our girls, look at the passion. They made a difference for millions of girls in South Africa. They have role models. There are so many trials and tribulations. I’m so thankful.”

‘This Energy Never Stops’ – Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025

‘This Energy Never Stops’ – Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025

In typical Springbok style the forwards pick and go rugby was immensely effective, especially in the first half which saw the teams run into the changing rooms with ten points apiece. As de Bruin points out.

“A lot of our plans worked in the first half. They didn’t expect the 15-man maul or the set-ups next to the scrum. And then we kept fighting, fighting, fighting. Ireland got nought against them, other teams couldn’t score tries.

“For us to score three tries against the mighty Black Ferns, it’s a big honour and I’m so proud of each and every one of them.

“South African rugby is in the right way.”

Springbok captain Nolusindiso Booi, who will retire at the end of the tournament age 40, gave her thoughts after the match.

“I think my team did good in the first half. Our preparations were good but it’s just that New Zealand were above us. Congratulations to them, good luck for their semi-final. Thank you to our fans and to everyone here cheering us. Congratulations to my girls. We pushed until the last minute.

“I’m so emotional right now but I am also proud of the progress of our team. I feel that we did good and for sure the young generation will push for the final, hopefully next time.”

Springbok number eight and arguably their player of the tournament Aseza Hele was equally as emotional after the game.

“It was very tough but we gave them a taste of South Africans. We knew it was going to be tough and we know they are the champions. They had the pressure, we didn’t, but we wanted to challenge them and make them feel that we want to be the next generation.

“We were very content (at half-time) and we had done what we wanted to do. We tested ourselves and now we know where we are at the moment.

“It was a good first half. It’s a learning curve for us. I know the next World Cup we are going to being special. We are here and we belong here.”