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The South Africa national rugby union team, known as the Springboks, is one of the most revered rugby sides of all time. Their history dates back to 1891, when they contested their first test match against a touring British Isles team. Today, the Springboks host their home matches at various venues, including the iconic Ellis Park Stadium.

As one of the most successful rugby teams in the southern hemisphere, the Springboks compete in two international tournaments: The Rugby Championship and the Rugby World Cup. They have claimed four titles in both competitions and, in 2023, they became the first team to win four Webb Ellis Cups (1995, 2007, 2019 and 2023).

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The Springboks have intense rivalries with many of the world’s top rugby teams. This includes prominent ‘Tier 1’ rugby nations, such as Australia, England, France, Ireland, Italy, New Zealand, Scotland and Wales.

In terms of their skill, South Africa boasts strong head-to-head results. In fact, the Springboks currently hold winning records over all of their opponents with the exception of one: New Zealand.

Regardless of which team they face, Springboks matches are always fiercely fought, highly charged and extremely competitive. This was most evident during the team’s famous 1995 Rugby World Cup victory at Ellis Park, when Joel Stransky’s extra-time drop-goal sealed South Africa’s 15-12 win.

Interestingly, South Africa have become known as one of the tournament’s most unbeatable sides. In total, the Springboks won 42 of their 50 RWC matches between 1995 and 2023.

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