@WomenBoks
Springbok Women head coach Louis Koen was full of praise for his charges who not only qualified for the 2025 Rugby World Cup but also sealed WXV 2 entry after beating Madagascar in Antananarivo on Sunday afternoon.
The South Africans beat Madagascar 46-17 to defend their title as African champions and kept their undefeated record at Stade Makis in Antananarivo, which now stands at six consecutive Tests.
“I am very proud of their effort today, but also in the first two matches of the tournament.
“It is tough playing three matches in 10 days and credit to the players who came out today and executed well. We really played well in the first half to lay the foundation for the win," said Koen.
Koen said qualifying for the Rugby World Cup was a massive boost to all involved, thanking all stakeholders, players, and management who walked this journey together.
“The game can only grow and improve from here,” he said.
Double win for South African rugby! ???????? Springbok Women win 46-17 against Madagascar, defending their African Rugby Cup title and qualifying for #RWC2025. Outstanding performances by Dumke, Cilliers, and Mdletshe! #gsportAfricahttps://t.co/CY0YSxGP9F pic.twitter.com/iVJtjebItG
— gsport4girls (@gsport4girls) May 12, 2024
South Africa’s captain, Nolusindiso Booi, agreed with Koen: "We play to inspire the next girl or woman to pick up a rugby ball and I think this win and qualifying for the Rugby World Cup will mean so much to those who want to see the game grow.
“We are on the big stage and belong there, so the next steps are important. We laid the foundation for the next phase and it is so exciting to be part of it. Credit to the players, but so much praise must go to the coaches who prepared us so well for this.”
The Bok Women will arrive in South Africa on Monday and the players will return to their provinces for the Women’s Premier Division.
