Springboks women delight in the performance of the ‘Magic’ World Cup to reach the quarterfinals

The Women’s Rugby Captain of South Africa, Nolusindiso Booi, summed up the feelings of the entire nations while describing his 29-24 victory in the Rugby World Cup over Italy as ‘Magic’, and dedicated the historical victory to those who preceded it.

Booi took the team to his first victory over Italy, and his first World Cup final, since victory assured his progress to the elimination stage after they won their first level match against Brazil 66-6.

Booi, the most covered female player in South Africa, told the media after Sunday’s victory: “The performance was magical, we never stopped fighting, knowing what was at stake.

“This victory went to all who came before us, those who raided the way. Look where we started and look where we are now, among the ten best games in the world. This is very rewarding for everyone, especially the coaches who prepared us for this moment.”

She added: “We knew why we were playing. The support today in York was huge and certainly pushed us to remain at the top of our game.

“There were too many people who would have disappointed if we did not make history today.”

The chief coach, Swys de Bruin, was equally effusive, welcoming the sand of the team after they returned from 17-5: “I am very proud of all, this was really a team effort, not only of all here in England, but also of our support structures at home, and this performance justifies the belief of Sa Rugby in us.

“We had a plan on how to overcome Italy and credit to my coaches, since it worked for a tee. Our first phase helped us score some attempts, while we also surpassed them on their backs with some charming attempts.

“We improve each positive statistic and we are only two rounds in this tournament. It is a great relief and one can only thank God that worked as planned.”

The team now has to face France in its last group game on Sunday, September 7, which will be its most difficult test to the tournament, but Booi is determined to soak up what they have already achieved.

She concluded: “I will not play rugby again at this level after this tournament and now I have won two billboards and qualify for the quarterfinals is such a humble feeling of gratitude.

“We work very hard for this and now we finally reward some rewards.”