All Blacks Remain Positive After South Africa Defeat

The All Blacks fell 29-24 to the Springboks in Soweto, giving the home side a 2-1 lead in the series following a tense battle at FNB Stadium, according to assistant coach Neil Barnes. Despite mounting a potent attacking display across the three-Test tour, New Zealand's hopes of emulating the legendary 'Incomparables' of 30 years ago dissolved amid set-piece struggles, disciplinary setbacks, and mounting injuries. According to head coach Dave Rennie, the dressing room was left 'pretty gutted' with 'a lot of heads down' after the defeat in South Africa. Assistant coach Neil Barnes stated that the squad had 'a chance to be amongst history and we failed and that hurts.' The touring side outscored the Springboks 13 tries to eight across the three matches, yet found themselves on the wrong side of the scoreboard in the final analysis. Barnes admitted the team would have to 'eat humble pie' after failing to secure the series victory on South African soil. New Zealand's preparations for the upcoming fourth Test in Baltimore, USA, took a hit due to injuries sustained during the Soweto encounter. According to team disclosures, captain Ardie Savea suffered a dislocated shoulder, midfielder Quinn Tupaea sustained a knee injury, and flanker Luke Jacobson picked up an elbow problem. Savea scored two tries in the opening 25 minutes before leaving the field. Furthermore, players including Josh Jacomb, Sione Lauaki, Saula Ma'u, Cortez Ratima, Bradley Slater, and Ofa Tu'ungafasi are traveling home rather than joining the squad in the United States. Photo: allblacks.com Set-Piece Battles and Match Official Controversies Barnes pointed out that the Springboks earned a 'gravy train' of penalties from their scrum dominance throughout the series. According to the coaching staff, the All Blacks must adopt a 'solution-based' approach to change the perception of officials. Referee Nika Amashukeli drew scrutiny for key decisions, including a yellow card issued to first five-eighth Ruben Love and a failure to award a penalty try following an intentional knock-down by Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu. Rennie described the officiating decisions immediately after the match as 'hard to take.' Additional reports noted that South Africa capitalized on early All Blacks errors, with Cheslin Kolbe intercepting a pass to race 65 meters for a crucial try. From Instagram — related to blacks remain positive south, All Blacks Springboks Despite the series deficit, players like lock Sam Darry and fullback Damian McKenzie emphasized that the All Blacks are operating very close to the world champions' level. McKenzie noted that if the side can stack threatening moments for longer periods, it will translate into victories. The squad depth will face an immediate test in Baltimore at the home of the Ravens NFL team, with players like Wallace Sititi, Peter Lakai, and Ethan Blackadder positioned to step into roles. The touring party includes a reinforced forward pack featuring Asafo Aumua, Codie Taylor, and Samisoni Taukei'aho alongside an experienced backline boasting Beauden Barrett, Richie Mo'unga, and Jordie Barrett. Photo: allblacks.com Did you know? The All Blacks and Springboks will meet for a fourth and final Test match in Baltimore, marking a clash between the historic southern hemisphere rivals. Frequently Asked Questions What was the final score of the third Test between the All Blacks and Springboks? The Springboks defeated the All Blacks 29-24 at FNB Stadium in Soweto, giving South Africa a 2-1 lead in the series. MINI MATCH | All Blacks v South Africa | Third Test, Johannesburg, 2026 Which key All Black players picked up injuries in Soweto? Captain Ardie Savea (dislocated shoulder), midfielder Quinn Tupaea (knee), and flanker Luke Jacobson (elbow) suffered injuries during the match. Where is the fourth Test of the series being played? The final Test of the series takes place in Baltimore, USA, at the home stadium of the Ravens NFL team. Who scored tries for the All Blacks in the third Test? Ardie Savea scored two early tries, Leroy Carter added another, and Will Jordan crossed the try line following a kick-and-chase sequence.