Springbok women’s Zintle Mpupha ahead of France clash - We trust in each other
Springbok women’s rugby star Zintle Mpupha emphasises team composure and trust as key factors in their historic victory over Italy, setting the stage for a challenging match against France in the Women’s Rugby World Cup this weekend. Picture: AFP
Image: AFP
For South African rugby fans, the Springboks’ 29-24 victory over Italy to book their spot in the knockout stages of the Women’s Rugby World Cup for the first time ever was a rollercoaster ride, and it was testament to the character of the rapidly rising side that they were able to hold out for the win.
But just how the players were able to manage their nerves in the pressure cauldron that is the World Cup, is something that centre Zintle Mpupha is able to explain with authority and clarity.
Like many of the Springbok side littered with phenomenal talent, the 31-year-old leans on all her experience in those crunch moments.
Speaking to IOL in an exclusive interview, Mpupha revealed how her charges were able to get over the line to signal a new era in their history.
Staying Calm and Focused: Mpupha’s Insights on Team Composure
“In those moments, it was about staying calm and sticking to what we’ve trained. We spoke a lot about composure during the week, and that helped us focus on the next action rather than the scoreboard,” said Mpupha.
“We definitely all knew that there will be that point and time in the game, that things look tense and nerve-wracking but we trusted each other, trusted the work we’ve put in, and just dug in until the final whistle.”
Next up for the Springboks is their final Group D clash against France on Sunday in Northampton.
With the Boks moving up two spots to 10th in the women’s world rankings, the task will be even greater when they meet their fourth-ranked opponents this weekend.
Italy were also favourites against SA, but the Springboks can pull off another surprise, says Mpupha
However, Italy were also favourites against SA and there’s every reason to believe that the Springboks can pull off another surprise. At least that’s what one is led to believe with the wise words of Mpupha.
“Beating Italy was massive for us, but our mindset doesn’t change. We know France is another big challenge, and we’ll need to raise our standards again. The focus stays on our processes—preparation, execution, and belief. We’ll take the confidence from this win forward, but keep pushing to improve.”
Even if the match does not go according to plan for the Springboks, the fact that they’ve made it to the quarterfinals is an immense achievement, and the side could not be blamed for lifting their heads high.
“It’s honestly an incredible feeling and a proud moment in my career. To be part of this group making history means a lot, not just for me, but for women’s rugby in South Africa. We’ve worked so hard to get here, and to see it pay off is special.
“Hopefully, it inspires the next generation to believe that they too can achieve great things in the Springbok jersey.”