South Africa’s women’s rugby team has triumphantly secured their place in the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025. They clinched this spot by defeating Madagascar 46-17 and retaining their Rugby Africa Women’s Cup title in a display of skill and dominance.
A Dominant Performance
The Springbok Women showcased their prowess at Stade Makis in Antananarivo, scoring eight tries to maintain an impeccable record in the Women’s Cup. This victory not only marked their third continental crown but also secured their representation for Africa at the Women’s RWC 2025. South Africa now joins England, New Zealand, Canada, France, and Ireland in qualifying for this prestigious tournament.
Upcoming Competitions
Following their Women’s Cup success, South Africa will compete in WXV 2 on home soil this September and October. Meanwhile, Madagascar, as the tournament’s runners-up, will make their WXV debut in the third level in Dubai.
Inspiring Future Generations
“We play to inspire the next girl or woman to pick up a rugby ball, and I think this win and qualifying for the Rugby World Cup will mean so much to those who want to see the game grow,” said Springbok Women captain Nolusindiso Booi. She praised the players and the coaches for their hard work and preparation, highlighting the significance of their achievements on the global stage.
Match Highlights
The final match saw South Africa maintain their undefeated record in the Women’s Cup. Early in the game, Madagascar faced a setback when Modestine Raharimalala was sent to the sin bin in the sixth minute. The Springbok Women capitalized on this advantage, with winger Veroeshka Grain and number eight Sizophila Solontsi scoring two tries, one converted by Jacomina Cilliers.
After Raharimalala returned, Sikholiwe Mdletshe added a third try, and shortly after, she scored another, extending the lead. Despite a response from Madagascar’s Felaniaina Jeannie Rakotoarison, South Africa’s dominance continued. Scrum-half Tayla Kinsey received a yellow card, but Jacomina Cilliers scored another try just before halftime, giving the Springbok Women a commanding 27-5 lead.
The second half mirrored the first, with Lusanda Dumke and Rumandi Potgeiter each scoring a try, both converted by Cilliers. Although Madagascar managed to score twice more through Marie Sophie Razafiarisoa and Laurence Rasoanandrasana, a final try from Asithandile Ntoyanto sealed the 46-17 victory for South Africa.
Kenya vs. Cameroon
In a separate match, Kenya claimed third place by defeating Cameroon 39-17. Prop Rose Otieno and winger Diana Awino each scored two tries, contributing to a comfortable victory. Despite a late comeback from Cameroon, Kenya secured their win with a final try from second-row Faith Livoi.
Looking Ahead
As South Africa celebrates their victory and looks forward to competing in the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025, they continue to inspire future generations of female rugby players. Their journey and success serve as a testament to the growing strength and popularity of women’s rugby on the African continent and beyond.