Soweto: South Africa eventually overpowered a spirited New Zealand, who could only outrun their hosts' set-piece power for so long, as the world champions came on strong in the final quarter in Soweto to take a 2-1 lead in a high-quality Greatest Rivalry series.
According to BBC, the two sides traded two tries each in a tight first half, with New Zealand's composure and ambition with the ball in hand stretching South Africa's onrushing defense. The All Blacks sniffed a famous victory when Will Jordan chased after his own kick ahead and crossed for a 17-12 lead in the 55th minute. However, Jesse Kriel soon barged through Leroy Carter to cross at the other end, allowing South Africa to capitalize on their momentum.
Malcolm Marx plunged over at the back of a juggernaut maul, and a Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu penalty gave South Africa a cushion that Samisoni Taukeiaho's final-play try could dent, but not fully deflate. The two teams will meet in a fourth and final Test in the American city of Baltimore next weekend, with New Zealand, who won the opening match, looking to snatch a draw in the series.
New Zealand initially defused South Africa's aggressive start, with Peter Lakai's turnover halting South Africa's momentum. Will Jordan's speed capitalized on this, switching play effectively. South Africa fly-half Feinberg-Mngomezulu received a yellow card for disrupting Ardie Savea's offload, leading to an All Blacks' try. Despite Cheslin Kolbe's exit due to a head knock, South Africa maintained their composure.
As the first half progressed, South Africa built momentum, with Damian de Allende's efforts setting up Kurt-Lee Arendse for a try following New Zealand's penalty offenses. Although New Zealand responded with a try of their own, South Africa's scrum power was undeniable, resulting in a penalty try that ensured parity at halftime.
In the second half, despite New Zealand's brief lead from Jordan's try, South Africa edged ahead with Kriel’s try. The hosts led 19-17 into the final quarter, and with the All Blacks lacking Savea's leadership due to an injury, the Springboks capitalized. Scrum pressure led to Marx's try, and Feinberg-Mngomezulu's penalty extended the lead to 12 points. Taukeiaho's late try was insufficient to change the outcome.
The match, witnessed by a crowd of 85,976, was a testament to the fierce competition between the two teams. As they prepare for their next encounter in Baltimore, both teams reflect on a series that has showcased the intensity and skill of international rugby.