The Springboks restored parity in the Greatest Rivalry series with a 33-26 triumph over the All Blacks at DHL Stadium on Saturday, setting up a decisive encounter at FNB Stadium next weekend.
Siya Kolisi announced his return from injury in emphatic fashion, barging over from close range for a first-half try in his first appearance since the opening Test at Ellis Park. The Springbok captain's presence proved influential before Rassie Erasmus withdrew him early in the second period, a precautionary measure that underscored his importance to the campaign ahead.
Pieter-Steph du Toit marked his 100th Test cap with a performance befitting the milestone, working tirelessly across the park in a display that epitomised his value to the Springbok cause. Eben Etzebeth, now the Boks' record cap holder, dominated the forward exchanges and disrupted New Zealand's lineout, looking back to his imperious best after recent injury struggles.
Forward battle decides contest
The Springboks controlled the forward battle for the majority of the match, with Ox Nche earning his 50th cap in the process. Reflecting on the achievement, Nche praised the coaches who had shaped his journey. The prop acknowledged room for improvement despite the result, noting the side could have been sharper in attack and ball retention.
Nche anticipated another epic encounter at FNB Stadium, where a crowd exceeding 80,000 is expected. The Springboks returned to their Johannesburg training base on Sunday morning for a recovery day before resuming preparations on Monday. With the series locked at one apiece, the Soweto Test looms as the pivotal moment in determining which side carries momentum into the final fixture.