When people refer to the 2019 world cup winners, they are usually talking about the Rugby World Cup held in Japan. The tournament concluded on November 2, 2019, with South Africa lifting the Webb Ellis Cup for the third time in their history. This victory cemented their status as one of the most formidable forces in international rugby, following their successful defense of their 2007 title.
The Final Showdown: South Africa vs England
The final at the International Stadium in Yokohama was a tense affair between two powerhouses of the sport. England entered as favorites, boasting an attacking flair that had seen them score 65 points against Australia in the quarter-finals and 40 against New Zealand in the semi-finals. South Africa, however, relied on their trademark gritty defense and structured play. The match remained close until the final minutes, but a crucial try from replacement winger Cheslin Kolbe and the steady boot of Handré Pollard allowed the Springboks to secure a 32-12 victory.
Key Moments That Defined the Match
England opened the scoring early with a penalty, but South Africa responded with a try of their own. The first half was a battle of attrition, with the score tied at 12-12 at the break. The second half belonged to South Africa, who extended their lead with tries from Faf de Klerk and Kolbe. England fought back with a penalty from the boot of Owen Farrell, but it was not enough to overturn the deficit. The final whistle triggered wild celebrations among the South African squad and their fans.
Tournament Dominance and Statistical Analysis
Winning the tournament required more than just a strong final. South Africa demonstrated consistent excellence throughout the knockout stages, scoring 45 points against Wales and 46 against Japan. Their defensive record was particularly impressive, conceding just 18 points in their last three matches. This performance highlighted their balance, as they ranked first in the tournament for lineouts and turnovers.
Top Try Scorer: Julian Savea (New Zealand) with 8 tries.
Most Points: Handré Pollard (South Africa) with 76 points.
Player of the Tournament: Siya Kolisi (South Africa).
The Significacy of the Victory
For South Africa, this win was about more than just a trophy. It was a moment of national unity and pride, occurring just 24 years after the end of apartheid. Captain Siya Kolisi, the first black man to lift the trophy, embodied the journey of the nation. The victory provided a massive economic boost and solidified the country's legacy in the sport, joining an elite club of nations who have won the Rugby World Cup.
Looking Back at the 2019 Host Nation
Japan, as the host nation, also had a memorable tournament. They made history by defeating Ireland 19-12 in the group stages, marking their first ever win against a Tier 1 nation. Although they were eventually eliminated by South Africa in the quarter-finals, their passionate support and attacking style left a lasting impression on the tournament. Their performance signaled the arrival of Japan as a permanent powerhouse on the global rugby stage.
Legacy and Impact
The 2019 world cup winners, South Africa, returned home to a hero's welcome. The squad's success boosted the popularity of rugby domestically and inspired a new generation of players. The tournament also showcased the high level of sportsmanship and organization associated with Japanese hosting. Even years later, the images of jubilant South African players celebrating under the trophy remain iconic in the sport's history.
