Springbok power prop Wilco Louw says the Springboks had to overcome a hostile Parisian crowd as well as the unfortunate red card to Lood de Jager to beat France 32-17 on Saturday night.
The game kicked off in an electric atmosphere as the French set out to avenge their 2023 World Cup quarter-final defeat to the Boks. It seemed they would have their wish when they took a strong early lead, and then the Boks were reduced to 14 men for the second half.
“It was an incredible game to be part of,” said Louw, who delivered an epic second-half performance off the bench, winning several scrum penalties. “The French are a very good team, and obviously we did not think we would win by that margin.
“The boys were out there with 14 men for a whole half, so we are really proud of the effort. Everyone stayed focused on our task today. The guys stepped up, especially defensively, and we managed to get a bit of momentum in the maul.”
Louw said the atmosphere at the Stade de France threatened to be overwhelming.
“It is an incredible experience going out in that stadium,” he said.
“Everyone is singing and cheering — and not for you! We spoke before the game about focusing on ourselves, especially during the warm-up with all that noise.
“It was a great first half, and when the red card happened, the boys really wanted to lift each other in that second half.”
The Boks’ stunning victory is all the sweeter because it was captain Siya Kolisi’s 100th Test, while coach Rassie Erasmus was in charge for the fiftieth time.
“Rassie is an incredible coach, just in the way he gets everyone up and focused on the task,” said Louw. “Both he and Siya are incredible human beings.
“Siya is such a servant for this team — and not just this team, but for our whole nation. He is an amazing leader and player. We all admire him for the person he is and for everything he has gone through in his life.
“He plays with his heart on his sleeve and leads by example. We are proud of both of them and hopefully there are many more milestones to come.”
The Boks turn their attention to Italy, who will be boosted by their 26-19 defeat of the Wallabies.
“France was a big one for us, but next week Italy will be up and ready for us,” said Louw.
“They are always physical, they have got a good scrum and maul, and they like to throw the ball around. It will be another big challenge,” Louw concluded.
