This archive report was first published on 4 October 2019.
On Friday, October 4, 2019, South Africa's Springboks delivered a crushing performance against Italy, securing a 49-3 victory at Shizuoka Stadium. This triumph propelled them to the top of Rugby World Cup Pool B, surpassing Italy and New Zealand in the process.
The Springboks' display of controlled brutality was a stark contrast to their opening 23-13 loss to New Zealand. Cheslin Kolbe, a key player, scored a try in each half, while Bongi Mbonambi, Lukhanyo Am, Makazole Mapimpi, RG Snyman, and Malcolm Marx also contributed to the team's bonus point.
Italy's task became increasingly impossible after prop Andrea Lovotti was sent off for a clear red card offense in the 43rd minute. Lovotti's mistake came when he tipped Duane Vermeulen onto his head, leaving Italy with slim hopes of progressing. Their only chance now lies in beating the All Blacks for the first time.
South Africa captain Siya Kolisi praised his team's performance, stating, 'It was tough in the beginning, we knew what the challenge would be and that it would be a forward battle, so from the first scrum we wanted to give everything.' He also acknowledged the team's improvement, saying, 'It's been a tough couple of weeks but we have regrouped. Our coaches and management have been backing us by giving us as much information as possible and the way we responded today was really good.'
Italy's captain, Sergio Parisse, expressed disappointment, saying, 'We played against a very strong side. We tried to come back in the second half but after the red card it was very difficult. It's tough for us, but we must keep going forward. We are very disappointed, but we must try and finish well against the All Blacks (on Oct. 12).'
