The African National Congress (ANC), South Africa’s ruling party, has expressed pride in the national rugby team following their nail-biting 25-24 defeat to Ireland at Kings Park in Durban on Saturday, saying “team’s dedication and talent have been truly remarkable”.
Despite the heartbreaking loss, which came in the final seconds of the match, the ANC took to social media to rally behind the Springboks.
In a statement, the party declared, “We are immensely proud of the Springboks. Though the final result wasn’t in our favour, the team’s dedication and talent have been truly remarkable.”
The closely contested match saw world champions South Africa fall to Ireland in a dramatic fashion, with Irish substitute Ciaran Frawley securing victory through a last-gasp drop goal.
This marked only the second time Ireland has defeated the Springboks on South African soil, making the loss particularly poignant for the home team and its supporters.
The ANC’s message of support highlights the significance of the Springboks in South African culture and national pride.
Even in defeat, the party’s statement emphasises the team’s commitment and skill, underlining the unifying role that sport, particularly rugby, plays in the nation.
