Springboks overpower England in Nations Championship opener
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 4, 2026, 6:08 PM
Last updated Jul 4, 2026
South Africa secured a 45-21 victory over England at Ellis Park on July 4, marking England's fifth consecutive Test defeat. The Springboks quickly established a 17-0 lead despite losing key players, while England rallied with tries from Ellis Genge and George Martin. However, South Africa proved too strong, taking advantage of England's errors and reduced player count late in the match. The defeat raises questions for England's head coach Steve Borthwick ahead of next weekend's match against Fiji.
- •South Africa leads England 45-21 at Ellis Park, July 4.
- •England has now lost five straight Tests.
- •South Africa's fast start included three tries within 12 minutes.
- •England's Alex Coles scored late, but South Africa pulled away.
- •Next match for England is against Fiji, with Borthwick under pressure.
- 6:08 PMYahoo Sports — Steve Borthwick faces defining week as dominant Springboks condemn England to fifth straight loss
"South Africa 45-21 England: The double reigning world champion Springboks outclassed their visitors in their Nations Championship opener as next weekend’s match against Fiji looms large for Borthwick
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