New Zealand emerged victorious in their Rugby Championship match against South Africa, securing a 35-20 win in Auckland.
The All Blacks took an early lead with tries from Aaron Smith and Shannon Frizell, establishing a 17-0 advantage.
The Springboks fought back with a penalty from Faf de Klerk and tries from Malcolm Marx and Cheslin Kolbe, narrowing the gap to 23-15.
However, New Zealand responded with tries from Will Jordan and Richie Mo’unga, extending their lead. A late try from South Africa’s Kwagga Smith concluded the match.
All Blacks captain Sam Cane expressed satisfaction with the team’s performance, recognizing the physicality and quality of the match against the reigning World Cup champions. Cane, however, did not return after halftime due to injury. De Klerk also had to be substituted during the second half due to injury.
The Springbok coach, Jacques Nienaber, attributed their slow start and subsequent catch-up rugby to poor discipline and unforced errors, allowing New Zealand to capitalize on their mistakes.
The two teams are scheduled to face each other again at Twickenham on August 25 in a friendly match before the Rugby World Cup in France.
