This archive report was first published on 2 November 2019.
On a day that lived up to its billing as a clash of titans, South Africa's Springboks delivered a masterclass performance to claim the Rugby World Cup title with a 32-12 victory over England on Saturday, November 2, 2019.
The Springboks' gameplan, often criticized for being boring, proved to be the perfect antidote to England's attacking prowess, as they dominated the set-piece and kicked for territory with precision.
South Africa's Faf de Klerk and Handre Pollard were the architects of this strategy, trading penalties with England's Owen Farrell in the early stages of the match.
However, it was the Springboks' ability to adapt and respond to England's attacks that ultimately proved to be the difference-maker.
Despite suffering a few setbacks, including the loss of prop Kyle Sinckler and lock Lood De Jager, the Springboks remained resolute and continued to apply pressure on the English defense.
It was only a matter of time before the Springboks' electric finishing would pay off, and it came in the form of two blistering tries from wingers Makazole Mapimpi and Cheslin Kolbe.
The tries were a testament to the Springboks' total belief in and execution of their no-nonsense gameplan, devised by coach Rassie Erasmus.
