… As Ireland ousted from top spot in world rankings.
The Springboks – who beat France by 29-28 in a thrilling contest in Paris – will next face England in the Rugby World Cup semi-finals on Saturday, while Argentina and New Zealand will meet in the first semi-final on Friday.
During an incredible weekend of quarter-final action, the Springboks not only overpowered the host nation, but the All Blacks claimed a stunning win over Ireland – the team that had been No 1 in the rankings for an extended period of time
A look at the live rankings now show that the Springboks have shot up to No 1 spot as a result of these matches, with New Zealand now in second place.
Ireland have slipped to third, while France are fourth.
Springbok captain Siya Kolisi said that they knew it would take something special to beat France in the Rugby World Cup quarter-final on Sunday, and both him and Bok head coach Jacques Nienaber lauded the team’s character to pull through the victory to book their place in the semi-final.
“We worked together as a team and we talked a lot about never giving up. We knew it would take something special and we did it today,” said Kolisi.
“France asked a lot of questions of us, but the character we showed stood out. We had a clear plan on what we needed to do, especially at the breakdown, and we had to fight for one another, especially in the last eight minutes of the yellow card. I’m proud of the guys and the discipline they showed.”
Nienaber was equally proud of the team: “We knew how tough it would be to come to France and face the French. They’ve been playing well and were consistent in their performances.
“They’ve also been building well as a team, so we knew it was going to be a proper Test match and it was always going to be tight. Many of the games (in the tournament) have been won and lost in the last eight minutes.”
Kolisi added to the coach’s sentiments.
“To latch onto what Jacques said, their team has been building for four years and we knew it would take everything (to win),” said Kolisi.
“For their captain to come back from an injury and play the way he did was good. We knew how loud and intense it would be at the stadium, but the French people can be proud of their team. It was a tough game, and we knew it would take something special.”
It is worth noting Eswatini occupies the 104th spot on the list.
- Article sourced from MSN
