Springbok Women eye historic Rugby World Cup quarterfinal spot against Italy

The Springbok Women stand on the brink of history. A victory over Italy this Sunday would catapult them into the Rugby World Cup quarterfinals for the very first time, a moment that could reshape the future of women’s rugby in South Africa.

A fresh start after Brazil demolition

Just a week ago, South Africa ran riot with a 66-6 thrashing of Brazil in their opening match. Ten tries, smiles all around, and a strong statement of intent. Yet for outside centre Zintle Mpupha, those celebrations are already filed away.

“In rugby, what you did last week doesn’t count this week,” she said. “We’re starting from ground zero again.”

It’s a reminder that Italy is no Brazil. Ranked higher than the Boks and carrying their trademark flair, the Azzurre represent a different test altogether.

Italy’s flair vs South Africa’s fire

South Africa and Italy have met just three times before, most recently in the WXV 2 tournament in Cape Town where the margins were razor thin. Last year’s clash was separated by just four points, proving that there’s little between the two teams.

Italy, still stung by a 24-0 defeat to France in their opener, will be desperate to bounce back. The Boks, meanwhile, hope to ride their momentum and turn resilience into history.

“They’re very skilful,” Mpupha admitted. “But we know what we bring as a team, and that’s what we’re focusing on.”

The Bomb Squad factor

In true Springbok fashion, the women have borrowed a page from the men’s playbook. Their bench, affectionately dubbed the “Bomb Squad,” was emptied at the 50-minute mark against Brazil, and it could be a secret weapon again in York.

“The Bomb Squad isn’t just for the men anymore,” Mpupha laughed. “The energy and fresh legs they bring are massive for us.”

A moment bigger than rugby

South Africa has never beaten Italy at a Rugby World Cup. A win now wouldn’t just rewrite the record books, it would elevate women’s rugby back home. Social media is already buzzing with excitement, with fans rallying behind the team and calling them “trailblazers” for the sport.

For young girls watching across South Africa, this is more than a match. It’s proof that the green and gold jersey isn’t just for the men, but for anyone bold enough to dream.

As Sunday approaches, the equation is simple: win, and history belongs to the Springbok Women.

Source:IOL

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