South Africa Retains Rugby Championship Title in Thrilling Victory Over Argentina

Springboks Clinch Back-to-Back Rugby Championship Crowns

London, UK – The South African Springboks have successfully defended their Rugby Championship title, defeating Argentina's Pumas 29-27 in a dramatic final match held at Twickenham's Allianz Stadium on October 4, 2025. This hard-fought victory marks South Africa's sixth Rugby Championship title and their first time winning consecutive championships.

The match, played in front of a significant crowd, saw the Springboks overcome an early deficit and a challenging first half to secure the coveted trophy. The win was particularly significant as it was decided on points difference, with South Africa's superior +57 points margin eclipsing New Zealand's +8, despite both teams finishing on 19 log points.

Match Dynamics and Key Performances

The encounter was a game of shifting momentum. Argentina started strongly, taking an early lead through a try from Bautista Delguy and maintaining a 13-10 advantage at halftime. However, the Springboks showcased their renowned power game in the second half, with scrumhalf Cobus Reinach and hooker Malcolm Marx each scoring two crucial tries. Reinach was subsequently named Man of the Match for his impactful performance.

Flyhalf Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu contributed significantly with conversions and a penalty goal, adding to South Africa's tally. Argentina's efforts to stay in the contest were spearheaded by the boot and playmaking of Santiago Carreras, who scored conversions and penalty goals, and a late try from Rodrigo Isgro, alongside Delguy's second. Despite a late surge from the Pumas, which narrowed the scoreline, South Africa held on for the victory.

Historic Venue and Championship Context

The decision to host the final match at Twickenham in London was driven by the desire for increased ticket revenue, marking only the second time a Rugby Championship match has been played outside the Southern Hemisphere. This fixture was the culmination of the 2025 Rugby Championship, the fourteenth edition of the annual Southern Hemisphere rugby union competition organized by SANZAAR, featuring the national teams of Argentina, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa.

The Springboks entered the tournament as defending champions and concluded the campaign with a memorable win, solidifying their status as a dominant force in international rugby.