Junior All Blacks fall to South Africa in Under-20 World Championship final

NZ Herald

19 Jul, 2025 09:50 PMQuick Read

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New Zealand lost in the final to South Africa. Photo / Photosport

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South Africa have beaten the Junior All Blacks 23-15 to win rugby’s Under-20 World Championship final in Italy.

The Baby Boks led for the entire match after opening the scoring in the third minute.

Jayden Sa struck back for New Zealand, but disaster struck when prop Sika Pole was
handed a red card in the 23rd minute for a high tackle on South Africa loose forward J.J. Theron.

The Boks scored again before the break to lead 13-5 at halftime.

A late try to Junior Boks fullback Gilermo Mentoe sealed the win, while New Zealand did manage to score a consolation try through Maloni Kunawave.