The All Blacks experienced their first loss under coach Dave Rennie in the ongoing Greatest Rivalry series against South Africa, falling 33-26 in the second test at DHL Stadium in Cape Town on Sunday. The defeat leveled the series at one match all following South Africa’s opening win in Johannesburg. Despite the setback, the two-time reigning world champions kept their hopes alive of securing the series with one more match to be played.
Will Jordan was once again a standout for the All Blacks, ending his try-scoring streak from 2026 with a strong performance on the wing. Jordan led the team in metres gained (117), defenders beaten (7), and was among the leaders for line breaks with two. His notable run in the 16th minute set up the team’s first try. Leroy Carter was widely regarded as the best performer for New Zealand, delivering a dynamic display in his unexpected selection over Josh Moorby. Carter contributed effectively both offensively and defensively, executing a critical tackle to force a maul turnover on Cheslin Kolbe and scoring a vital try in the 66th minute.
Ardie Savea also made significant contributions, including a powerful 49-metre run and a late try in the 77th minute that gave the All Blacks hope of leveling the score. Savea led the team with 13 tackles, although he missed four attempts. Quinn Tupaea offered consistent ball-carrying efforts with 14 heavy runs but struggled to break through South Africa’s defense. Cam Roigard provided attacking impetus at scrum-half with adept footwork and passing, supporting the team’s scoring plays.
Other players faced challenges during the match. Damian McKenzie showed early promise but was less involved in the second half and struggled with the slippery conditions. Ruben Love had difficulty making a significant impact against relentless South African pressure and was caught in an intercept pass. The front row, including Tyrel Lomax and Codie Taylor, encountered difficulties in scrums and defensive breakdowns, conceding penalties that contributed to South Africa’s scoring opportunities.
Defensively, the All Blacks had moments of solidity but were ultimately unable to contain South Africa’s sustained pressure and dynamic attack. The forwards experienced mixed success, with Fabian Holland completing a strong 80 minutes but lacking the influence he showed in the previous test. Tupou Va’ai and Luke Jacobson both struggled to maintain consistent impact, with Jacobson missing possession and being penalized late in the game.
Replacements introduced during the second half had varied effects. Xavier Numia added physicality in the scrum, while Asafo Aumua had some promising runs but was beaten in a key lineout by South Africa’s Eben Etzebeth. Patrick Tuipulotu made some lineout contributions but was penalized for a costly holding-on penalty late in the match. Anton Lienert-Brown and Peter Lakai provided energy in the closing stages, though their offensive impact was limited.
As the series moves to the deciding test, the All Blacks will look to address the errors that allowed South Africa to regain parity and aim to secure a series win on South African soil.