Cape Town – President Cyril Ramaphosa has congratulated the Springboks for their thrilling 29-28 victory over France in the 2023 Rugby World Cup quarter-final on Saturday.
The win in Paris has secured the Springboks a spot in the semi-finals against England.
“President Cyril Ramaphosa offers his warm and proud congratulations – and those of the nation – to the Springboks on their 29-28 Rugby World Cup 2023 quarter-final victory over France on Sunday, 15 October,” said the Presidency in a statement.
The Springboks’ victory in Paris has positioned them for a semi-final showdown against England scheduled for Saturday, October 21, 2023. Notably, in November 2019, the Springboks clinched the Rugby World Cup final in Japan by triumphing over England.
Ramaphosa praised both the Springboks and the host nation, France, for their impressive performance and highlighted the unity and diversity represented by the team.
Spoke to coach @jacnienaber ahead of tonight’s quarter-final. pic.twitter.com/SH6wYuH3Gs
— Cyril Ramaphosa 🇿🇦 (@CyrilRamaphosa) October 15, 2023
“As a nation, we are proud of the Springboks advance to the semi-finals in a game that was an incredible athletic display, as well as a metaphor for our country. We are indeed stronger together when we come together in our diversity, and we create opportunities for people to live their passion, fulfil their potential, and display their talents.”
He expressed the nation’s pride and support for the Springboks and wished them success in their upcoming matches, emphasising that they inspire and unite the country.
“We’re also together on days when we struggle and when we create the space for people to come back from difficulty and to continue the journey to victory with us.
“Out of the 20 nations in the World Cup, the Springboks delighted and inspired us – whether they were on the field, on the bench or in the coaches’ box.
“We wish the Springboks the very best as they prepare for what we hope will be another unforgettable victory,” he said.
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Picture: Twitter/@PresidencyZA
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Compiled by Betha Madhomu