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South Africa vs New Zealand rugby live

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The gist

South Africa beat New Zealand 33-26 in Cape Town, leveling the series at 1-1. The third Test in Johannesburg on Sep 5 could decide the series.

Background

South Africa and New Zealand are playing a four-match Test series called 'Rugby's Greatest Rivalry'. The All Blacks won the first Test 33-16, but the Springboks bounced back in the second to level the series. The third Test is in Johannesburg, with the fourth in Baltimore, USA.

How it unfolded

  1. Aug 22, 2026First Test at Ellis Park: New Zealand beat South Africa 33-16.
  2. Aug 29, 2026Second Test at Cape Town Stadium: South Africa win 33-26, leveling the series at 1-1.
  3. Sep 5, 2026Third Test scheduled at FNB Stadium, Johannesburg, kick-off 4.10pm BST.

Who’s saying what

Official
South Africa coach Rassie Erasmus and New Zealand coach Dave Rennie are in a war of words over scrum tactics ahead of the third Test.

Sources

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