Overview

• Australia erased a 22-0 first-quarter deficit to win 38-22, marking their first victory in Johannesburg since 1963.
• Captain Harry Wilson and winger Dylan Pietsch both suffered significant injuries during the match, leaving their availability uncertain for upcoming Tests.
• Joe Schmidt’s halftime reset and emphasis on physicality and phase play at altitude fueled Australian dominance in the second half.
• Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus credited Australia’s physical game management but admitted his side failed to sustain their opening-quarter momentum.
• Captain Siya Kolisi and South African analysts questioned the team’s discipline and match preparation after the Springboks’ collapse.