South Africa finish strongly to take 2-1 series lead against All Blacks

In a high-stakes Rugby World Cup match at Soccer City, South Africa edged out New Zealand with a 2-1 series lead. Both teams traded tries in a tightly contested first half, but New Zealand took a 17-12 lead after Will Jordan crossed for a 17th-minute try. South Africa responded swiftly, with Jesse Kriel crossing for a try and Malcolm Marx kicking a penalty try to seal a 19-12 halftime lead.

Despite Samisoni Taukei aho's last-minute try, South Africa maintained their advantage, completing the win with two tries from Arendse and Kriel. The match saw South Africa's set-piece dominance overpower New Zealand's set-piece power, with key contributions from Asafo Aumua and Peter Lakai. The series will continue in Baltimore next weekend, with New Zealand aiming for a draw.