We did what we wanted to do
Springbok captain Siya Kolisi was pleased with how his team executed their game plan in the 61-7 win over Japan at Wembley.
The Boks scored eight tries on Saturday to kick off their five-match tour in style.
“I thought we did what we wanted to do,” Kolisi said. “Obviously, we made a couple of mistakes, but credit to Japan. We knew they wanted to play fast and move the ball quickly, so we tried to slow it down in the breakdown and make our hits. We had to work for everything we had today.”
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Kolisi emphasised that the result reflected the team’s preparation and contributions from across the wider squad.
“It was good for the players because we went back to our [provincial] unions in South Africa after the Rugby Championship and got to play. Some of the guys who’ve been training hard got their opportunity today, and it was great to see them take it.”
While pleased with the team’s performance, the Bok skipper said the focus had already shifted to their next challenge against France in Paris.
“All international games require us to step up. Japan are a great team, we saw what they did against Australia, and obviously we lost to them in the Rugby Championship. Next week will be a completely different game,” he said.
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Kolisi also praised flyhalf Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu, who scored twice in a standout display.
“He’s doing well and improving each game. He’s got amazing coaches behind him and senior players like Damian Willemse and Marnie Libbok pushing and helping him. But we’re focused on the team effort, without the forwards and the guys around him, he can’t do what he does.”
Hai lo mfana 🤯🇿🇦
Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu gets his brace 😤
📺 Stream #RSAvJAP on DStv: https://t.co/0P0NNho4A4 pic.twitter.com/U1iEq0wcDT
— SuperSport Rugby (@SSRugby) November 1, 2025
Looking ahead, Kolisi said maintaining intent and discipline will be key.
“I’m proud of the boys, but we have to step up next week. We missed a couple of opportunities, but we came in with intent, which is what we wanted.”
Photo: Luke Walker/Getty Images
Crédito: Link de origem