Society

South Africa wins Rugby World Cup, beating England

Nov 03 (NHK) - South Africa galloped by England to win the Rugby World Cup in Japan. The Springboks claimed the Cup for the first time since 2007.

It was a rematch of the final game of 2007.

Both teams scored only penalty kicks in the first half. South Africa led 12 - 6 at half time.

In the second half, the Springboks' Makazole Mapimpi and Cheslin Kolbe each pushed the ball across the line for the only two tries of the game. The final score was 32 - 12.

The Springboks became the second team after New Zealand to win three World Cup titles.

South Africa captain Siya Kolisi said: "I was grateful for everything that the team has been through. You know, we come from different backgrounds, different races and we came with one goal and wanted to achieve it. I really hope that we have done it for South Africa to show that we can pull together if we want to achieve something."

England captain Owen Farrel said: "First of all, I just want to thank all the English support back home and here. You've been unbelievable. And your support means a lot. Secondly, to Japan for hosting a fantastic tournament. We've loved it."

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