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South Africa beats All Blacks in rugby

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The gist

South Africa beat New Zealand 33-26 in Cape Town to level the four-Test series.
The win sets up a decider in Soweto, with the series tied at 1-1.

Background

South Africa and New Zealand are playing a four-Test series in 2026. After losing the first Test 33-16 in Johannesburg, the Springboks bounced back with a 33-26 win in Cape Town. The series is now level at 1-1, with the next Test in Soweto acting as a decider.

How it unfolded

  1. Aug 29, 2026South Africa beat New Zealand 33-26 in the second Test at Cape Town Stadium, leveling the series at 1-1.
  2. Sep 4, 2026Captain Siya Kolisi urges the team to channel the spirit of Soweto ahead of the third Test, referencing the 1976 Soweto Uprising.
  3. recentlyThe third Test is set to be played at FNB Stadium in Soweto, with the series tied and a fourth Test scheduled in Baltimore.

Who’s saying what

Official
South Africa captain Siya Kolisi praised the coaches' plans and said the team took their opportunities this week.
Analysts
Some analysts point to the high ball as an 'Achilles heel' for the All Blacks in the defeat.

Sources

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