The Blitzboks became the first-ever South African national team to lose a knockout game at the Stade de France after falling to hosts France on Saturday.
The Blitzboks suffered an agonising 21-5 defeat in their Olympic semi-final against France and will now play for bronze later tonight.
In a tense first half, both teams displayed nervousness in possession but showed steadfast determination in defense. The Blitzboks enjoyed better field position and scoring opportunities, but failed to capitalize, leaving the half deadlocked at 0-0.
France quickly introduced their star player, Antoine Dupont, after the restart. However, his initial impact was negative as he conceded a penalty, which led to the Blitzboks’ first score. Tristan Leyds crossed the corner after a quick-tap penalty.
Dupont soon redeemed himself by leading the French comeback, as the hosts crossed for three unanswered tries.
This result marks the Blitzboks as the first South African national team to lose a playoff game in an international competition at the Stade de France. The Springboks remained unbeaten in playoffs at both the 2007 and 2023 Rugby World Cups, and the Blitzboks had defeated New Zealand in their first playoff at this venue on Thursday.
Blitzboks’ Pool Results:
Wednesday, 24 July:
- SA lost 10-5 to Ireland
- Blitzboks lost 17-5 to New Zealand
Thursday, 25 July:
- SA beat Japan 49-5
- Blitzboks beat New Zealand 14-7
(All times SA, all matches on SuperSport)
Blitzboks Squad for the 2024 Olympics:
- Christie Grobbelaar
- Ryan Oosthuizen
- Impi Visser*
- Zain Davids*
- Quewin Nortje
- Tiaan Pretorius
- Shaun Williams
- Selvyn Davids* (captain)
- Tristan Leyds
- Rosko Specman**
- Siviwe Soyizwapi*
- Shilton van Wyk
Travelling Reserves:
- Ronald Brown*
- Katlego Letebele
(* indicates Tokyo Olympics 2021, ** indicates Rio Olympics 2016)
