The Springboks scored six tries to four in Baltimore to claim a 3-1 series victory over the All Blacks.
Baltimore, United States (Running Africa) — South Africa defeated New Zealand 43-28 in Baltimore on Saturday to seal a 3-1 series victory over the All Blacks in the four-Test Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry showdown.
The Springboks entered the final Test with a 2-1 advantage after winning the previous two encounters in South Africa and delivered their strongest attacking performance of the series at M&T Bank Stadium.
South Africa scored six tries to New Zealand’s four, turning a narrow three-point half-time advantage into a commanding victory in front of a record crowd.
Springboks Score Six Tries Against All Blacks
Damian de Allende, Morné van den Berg, Malcolm Marx, Pieter-Steph du Toit, Kurt-Lee Arendse, and Cameron Hanekom all crossed for South Africa.
New Zealand responded with tries from Codie Taylor, Will Jordan, Ethan Blackadder, and Beauden Barrett.
The Springboks led 17-14 at half-time before taking control after the break, scoring another 26 points to secure the 43-28 victory and complete a 3-1 series triumph.
South Africa vs New Zealand Sets US Rugby Attendance Record
The Baltimore Test also delivered a major milestone for rugby in the United States.
A crowd of 68,173 spectators attended the match at M&T Bank Stadium, home of the NFL’s Baltimore Ravens, setting a record attendance for a rugby match in the United States.
The turnout provided another indication of rugby’s growing profile in the country as the United States prepares to host the 2031 Men’s Rugby World Cup.
Historic All Blacks Tour Ends in Baltimore
The series formed part of the first full-scale All Blacks tour of South Africa in 30 years, with New Zealand playing eight matches over six weeks before traveling to Baltimore for the finale.
South Africa entered the match having already built a series advantage and ensured there would be no New Zealand comeback with a dominant second-half display.
The result adds another chapter to one of international rugby’s most celebrated rivalries.
Springboks Build Momentum Toward 2027 Rugby World Cup
For South Africa, the series victory provides another significant result as preparations continue for the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia.
The Springboks’ combination of forward power and attacking depth proved decisive against the All Blacks, particularly during the final 40 minutes in Baltimore.
With a 3-1 series victory over New Zealand secured, South Africa leaves Rugby’s Greatest Rivalry with another major statement as the road to the 2027 World Cup gathers pace.
