South Africa’s Rugby Championship title was ultimately secured by the narrowest of margins: points difference over the All Blacks. This fact underscores how every single moment of the tournament—every try, every penalty, every defensive stand—mattered in the final calculation of the title race.
While the final match against Argentina was the decider, the groundwork for the victory was laid in the preceding weeks. The Springboks’ record-breaking, bonus-point victory in Wellington was particularly crucial, as the large margin of victory in that match provided a significant boost to their points difference.
Conversely, the All Blacks will be left to rue moments in their own campaign where they perhaps left points on the field. The fine margins that separate first and second place in such a competitive tournament highlight the importance of a ruthless, 80-minute performance every single week.
This made the final showdown at Twickenham even more tense. The Springboks knew they not only had to win but also had to be mindful of the scoreboard to ensure they stayed ahead of their great rivals.
The championship being decided on points difference is a fitting end to one of the most competitive editions in years. It serves as a powerful reminder that in a tournament of this caliber, there are no small moments, and every single point counts.