New Zealand vs. South Africa (1995 Rugby World Cup Final)

About

The 1995 Rugby World Cup Final between New Zealand and South Africa was a historic and iconic event in the world of sports. Held at Ellis Park Stadium in Johannesburg, South Africa, on June 24, 1995, the match marked a significant moment in the country's post-apartheid era. The All Blacks, New Zealand's national rugby union team, were seeking to win their first World Cup title, while the Springboks, South Africa's national team, were aiming to lift the trophy on home soil. The match was a thrilling contest that saw the Springboks come from behind to win 15-12. The All Blacks dominated the early stages, with fly-half Andrew Mehrtens kicking three penalties to give his team a 9-6 lead at halftime. However, the Springboks rallied in the second half, with full-back Joel Stransky kicking a crucial penalty and wing Chester Williams scoring a try to seal the victory. The win marked a triumphant moment for South African rugby, as the team's victory brought the country together and helped to heal the wounds of the apartheid era. The match is still remembered as one of the greatest in rugby history, and its significance extends beyond the sport itself to the broader cultural and social context in which it was played.