The Springbok Women head into their final WXV Global Series fixture against Spain with renewed confidence after producing one of the standout results of their 2026 campaign.
South Africa made history on Saturday by recording their first-ever victory on Italian soil, beating Italy 41-29 at Stadio Omero Tognon in Pordenone.
The result was particularly significant given Italy’s higher position in the world rankings, with the Springbok Women producing a composed and attacking display to score six tries to Italy’s four.
Now, attention turns to Spain, where South Africa will look to finish the three-week tour on another positive note.
Set Piece Provides Platform for Victory
Springbok Women co-head coaches Laurian Johannes-Haupt and Franzel September were pleased with the way their team responded after a disappointing performance in Wales the previous weekend.
A major focus during preparations for Italy was improving South Africa’s set-piece execution, particularly the lineout drive.
That work paid dividends.
The Springbok Women used their maul effectively throughout the match, while their overall decision-making allowed them to play in the right areas of the field and maintain pressure on Italy.
Johannes-Haupt praised the players for responding positively to the lessons from the Wales defeat and executing the tactical plan in Pordenone.
The victory provided more than just four points — it demonstrated the team’s ability to make adjustments and respond under pressure.
Solontsi Highlights Fighting Spirit
Co-captain Sizophila Solontsi also pointed to the team’s determination as a crucial factor in the result.
South Africa entered the contest with something to prove after their previous performance, and the response was emphatic.
The six tries reflected an attacking side willing to take opportunities, while their ability to withstand Italy’s four-try response ensured they maintained control of the contest when it mattered most.
The victory also strengthened South Africa’s belief ahead of another demanding test against Spain.
Injury Changes Before Spain
The Springbok Women’s preparations have, however, been complicated by injuries.
Libbie Janse van Rensburg and Ayanda Malinga have both returned to South Africa for further medical treatment and assessment.
Janse van Rensburg picked up an ankle injury during the victory over Italy, while Malinga continues to deal with a knee problem suffered against Wales.
Mary Zulu has subsequently been called into the squad as cover.
There is also uncertainty surrounding Byrhandré Dolf.
The flyhalf started against Italy but left the match after undergoing a head injury assessment. She was scheduled to complete her HIA 3 protocols, after which the coaching staff would determine whether she is available for the Spain encounter.
Spain Awaits in Seville
The Springbok Women will face Spain in Seville on Sunday in their final match of the three-week WXV Global Series tour.
The fixture represents another opportunity for South Africa to test themselves against quality opposition and build on the lessons from the opening two matches.
After the Italy win, confidence within the squad should be high, but the coaching staff will also have to manage the impact of injuries and potential changes to the match-day group.
The Spain encounter will be followed by South Africa’s final international assignment of 2026 — a two-Test series against Ireland in Cape Town next month.
Momentum Building for the Springbok Women
The victory over Italy has given South Africa an important boost at the right stage of the tour.
More importantly, the performance showed the value of learning from previous setbacks and turning those lessons into improvements on the field.
With Spain now standing between the Springbok Women and the end of their WXV Global Series campaign, the challenge is to carry that momentum into Seville.
Can the Springbok Women finish their European tour with another big performance against Spain?
