Springboks Return to Wembley Seeking Redemption Against Japan

The Springboks head to Wembley Stadium this Saturday with something deeper than victory on their minds redemption. A decade after Japan’s stunning 34–32 win in Brighton sent shockwaves through world rugby, South Africa returns to English soil as a double world champion and back-to-back Rugby Championship winner.

This isn’t just another Test match. It’s a statement of how far South African rugby has come since that humbling day in 2015.

From Brighton Heartbreak To Global Dominance

Back then, few could’ve imagined the Springboks would go on to lift the Webb Ellis Cup twice in four years. The 2015 loss to Japan then coached by Eddie Jones was seen as the lowest point in modern Bok history. It was followed by a difficult 2016 season under Allister Coetzee, when the side managed only four wins from 12 games.

Fast forward to today, and Rassie Erasmus’ side stands as the most dominant in world rugby. The Springboks have not only conquered two consecutive Rugby World Cups but also made history this year by retaining the Rugby Championship title for the first time ever a feat that even the great Tri-Nations Boks never achieved.

New Blood, Same Fire

Erasmus’ ability to blend experience with fresh energy has been a defining trait of his tenure. Saturday’s match will showcase that balance again, with stalwarts like Siya Kolisi, Damian de Allende, and Malcolm Marx lining up alongside emerging talents.

One of the biggest talking points is 21-year-old Zachary Porthen, who will make his Test debut at tighthead prop becoming the youngest player to do so for South Africa in the professional era. Erasmus believes the youngster has the temperament to handle the pressure.

“He’s shown his quality in the United Rugby Championship and with the Junior Springboks,” Erasmus said. “At this level, you have to sink or swim, and we believe he’s ready.”

Meanwhile, Lood de Jager and Kurt-Lee Arendse return from injury, while Franco Mostert rejoins the starting lineup after missing the title-clinching win over Argentina.

A Familiar Face Returns For Japan

Adding spice to the contest is the return of Eddie Jones as Japan’s head coach the same man who masterminded that infamous 2015 upset. South African fans still recall his sideline grin as Karne Hesketh dived over for the winning try.

While Japan hasn’t reached those heights since, Jones’ presence ensures the Brave Blossoms will come prepared for battle. Their trademark speed and discipline could test a Bok team that’s been rotating players and fine-tuning combinations midway through the World Cup cycle.

Wembley, The Stage Of Redemption

This match will mark the first time South Africa faces Japan in England since the Brighton debacle, making Wembley the perfect setting for closure. For fans, the symbolism isn’t lost it’s about completing a circle that began with humiliation and ends with a champion’s pride.

Kolisi, playing his 99th Test, has spoken about how every game now feels like building a legacy. “We’re proud of where we’ve come from,” he said. “We don’t forget the lessons they made us who we are.”

Kickoff Details

Date: Saturday, 1 November 2025
Time: 6:10 PM CAT (4:10 PM GMT)
Venue: Wembley Stadium, London
How to Watch: Live on SuperSport

The Bok Squad To Face Japan

Starting XV:
15 Cheslin Kolbe (Tokyo Sungoliath)
14 Ethan Hooker (Hollywoodbets Sharks)
13 Jesse Kriel (Canon Eagles)
12 Damian de Allende (Wild Knights)
11 Kurt-Lee Arendse (Vodacom Bulls)
10 Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu (DHL Stormers)
9 Cobus Reinach (DHL Stormers)
8 Jasper Wiese (Urayasu D-Rocks)
7 Franco Mostert (Honda Heat)
6 Siya Kolisi (captain, Hollywoodbets Sharks)
5 Lood de Jager (Wild Knights)
4 RG Snyman (Leinster)
3 Zachary Porthen (DHL Stormers)
2 Malcolm Marx (Kubota Spears)
1 Ox Nche (Hollywoodbets Sharks)

Replacements:
16 Johan Grobbelaar, 17 Gerhard Steenekamp, 18 Wilco Louw, 19 Ruan Nortje, 20 Andre Esterhuizen, 21 Kwagga Smith, 22 Grant Williams, 23 Manie Libbok

Social Media Reaction

Fans have already dubbed the upcoming clash the “Wembley Redemption Test.” On X (formerly Twitter), one user wrote: “From Brighton to Wembley time to close the circle, boys.” Another added, “If Japan could shock us once, we can shock them forever.”

South Africans at home and abroad are expected to pack pubs, lounges, and fan zones to witness what could be another proud chapter in the Springbok story.

The Final Word

For Rassie Erasmus and Siya Kolisi’s men, Saturday isn’t about revenge. It’s about respect for the jersey, for the journey, and for the game that once broke them but ultimately built their legacy.

Ten years ago, the Boks fell to Japan. This weekend, they return to show just how far they’ve risen.

For more sports news and updates follow: sa rugby mag and africapicks

{Source:ESPN Africa}

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