Wallabies’ Comeback Stuns Springboks in Johannesburg

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Australia’s rugby team pulled off a remarkable comeback on Saturday, August 17, defeating South Africa 38-22 at Ellis Park and recording their first win at the historic venue in 62 years. Trailing 22-0 early, the Wallabies surged back with six unanswered tries under coach Joe Schmidt, shocking the defending champions and ending South Africa’s eight-match winning streak.

Despite the dramatic scoreline, former England coach Eddie Jones urged caution in reading too much into the result. Speaking on the Rugby Unity podcast, Jones argued that South Africa’s head coach, Rassie Erasmus, had set his focus on the second Test in Cape Town.

“South Africa has been winning at around 80% and remains the most dominant team in the world,” Jones said. “Erasmus carries a large squad, and I believe he had already made his intentions clear to the players. Sometimes you announce it, sometimes you don’t.”

Jones stressed that across a series, South Africa usually reasserts itself. “They prioritized the Test in Cape Town and thought they could get through with the first-Test squad. It didn’t work out, but at this level, anyone can win a single game. Play this Test in Joburg ten times, and South Africa probably wins seven of them.”

He also suggested that the Wallabies’ performance may be linked to conditions. “Australia has historically played better at sea level, which makes Cape Town a tougher challenge. History shows they often produce stronger performances there,” Jones added.

Whether South Africa regains control will be decided in the next match. Analysts expect the Springboks to lean on their set-piece power, tighten discipline, and reassert their physical dominance. For Australia, the win provides confidence, but the series remains finely poised.