The South Africa Springboks kicked off their 2025 summer rugby campaign with a commanding 42-24 victory over Italy in the first of two tests, played at Loftus Versfeld Stadium in Pretoria on July 5. The match showcased the Springboks' dominant forward power and clinical execution in the first half, while Italy mounted a spirited comeback in the second half, making for an entertaining contest.
From the opening whistle, South Africa asserted their authority. Jesse Kriel, the Springboks captain, set the tone early with a well-executed try in the 11th minute, capitalizing on a perfectly weighted grubber kick by Damian de Allende. Handré Pollard, who would prove flawless with the boot throughout the game, converted to give the hosts a 7-0 lead.
South Africa’s pack was relentless, and their dominance in the scrum paid dividends when Morne van den Berg powered over for a try in the 23rd minute. The Springboks’ scrum, led by Jasper Wiese’s precise control and forward momentum, bulldozed the Italian defense, enabling van den Berg to score. Pollard’s conversion extended the lead to 14-0.
Italy finally got on the scoreboard in the 27th minute when Giacomo Da Re slotted a penalty, reducing the deficit to 14-3. However, the Springboks kept the pressure on. Kurt-Lee Arendse, known for his blistering pace and footwork, carved through Italy’s defense in the 29th minute for a brilliant solo try, with Pollard again adding the extras to push the score to 21-3.
The Springboks continued to dominate proceedings, and van den Berg scored his second try of the match in the 37th minute, showcasing his speed and power as he exploited a gap in the Italian defense. Pollard’s conversion made it 28-3 at halftime, reflecting South Africa’s control in possession and territory. The Springboks had scored four tries in the first half, while Italy had struggled to contain their opponents.
The halftime statistics told the story: South Africa held 71% possession and 62% territory, with 40 tackles made compared to Italy’s 124, indicating the visitors' defensive workload. Despite Italy’s resilience, they were unable to break through South Africa’s formidable defense in the first 40 minutes.
The second half saw Italy come out with renewed vigor. Manuel Zuliani barged over for Italy’s first try in the 46th minute, converting the penalty to bring the score to 28-10. The visitors showed improved cohesion and attacking intent, applying pressure on the Springboks’ defense.
South Africa responded with a try from replacement Vincent Koch in the 56th minute. Koch, part of the Springboks’ feared 'Bomb Squad' replacements, powered through the Italian defense, scoring after a series of offloads. Pollard’s perfect conversion extended the lead to 35-10.
Italy refused to back down. Debutant hooker Pablo Dimcheff scored a try in the 63rd minute, with Giacomo Da Re’s conversion closing the gap to 35-17. A few minutes later, captain Niccolò Cannone crashed over in the 68th minute, with the conversion narrowing South Africa’s lead further to 35-24.
Italy’s comeback was marked by strong counter-rucking and aggressive defense, forcing turnovers and slowing the Springboks’ ball. However, South Africa’s depth and experience showed in the closing stages. Marco van Staden sealed the win with a powerful late try in the 74th minute, pushing the score to 42-24. Pollard’s conversion once again was flawless, maintaining his 100% kicking record for the match.
The game was not without disciplinary moments. Italy’s Alessandro Izekor received a yellow card in the 73rd minute, giving the Springboks a man advantage late in the game. Earlier, Italy’s Lorenzo Cannone was also sin-binned in the 22nd minute, which South Africa capitalized on during their dominant first half.
Despite Italy’s spirited second-half performance, the Springboks’ early dominance and ability to respond to pressure ensured they controlled the match tempo and outcome. The Springboks’ forward pack, led by Eben Etzebeth and Lood de Jager, was particularly influential, while the backline showed sharp finishing skills, especially from Arendse and van den Berg.
Handré Pollard’s flawless kicking contributed significantly to the scoreboard, converting all seven of his attempts, a testament to his composure and skill under pressure. The Springboks’ ability to execute set pieces and maintain possession was a key factor in their victory.
This win extends South Africa’s commanding head-to-head record against Italy, with 15 wins to Italy’s single victory in 16 encounters. The last meeting in 2022 saw the Springboks run out 63-21 winners in Genoa, and this result reinforces South Africa’s status as one of the top rugby nations globally.
The Springboks will look to build on this solid start as they prepare for the second test against Italy, aiming to maintain their top spot in the World Rugby rankings. Italy, despite the loss, showed encouraging signs in the second half and will seek to improve their performance in the upcoming fixture.
Fans can look forward to more exciting rugby action this summer, with the Springboks scheduled to face France, Ireland, and Wales later in the year. The ongoing summer internationals promise to be a thrilling showcase of international rugby talent.
As the 2025 international rugby season progresses, the Springboks’ blend of powerful forwards and dynamic backs continues to make them a formidable force, while Italy’s resilience and improving skill set suggest a growing competitiveness on the world stage.
For now, South African rugby supporters can celebrate a strong start to their summer campaign, with the Springboks demonstrating why they remain one of the sport’s elite teams.
