Springboks: Saffas flock to Paris for the semi-final showdown
South Africans are booking last minute flights to Paris to watch the Springboks play England in a RWC semi-final.
One look at social media, and it’s easy to see that everyone and their dog are currently in France. And it’s all thanks to the Rugby World Cup weekend, which includes an explosive Springboks vs England semi-final showdown.
The Boks will take on England on Saturday, 21 October, at the Stade de France.
ALSO READ: Springboks fans troll England’s Mike Tindall: ‘A common drunk’
PARIS WELCOMES SAFFAS KEEN TO SEE SPRINGBOKS PLAY
According to Morning Live presenter Leanne Manas, South Africans are flocking to Paris, France, to see their national team in action this weekend.
ALSO READ: Rassie reveals death threats made against Springbok star
Tweeting pics of her en route to the French capital, she posted: “The atmosphere on @AirFranceZA was unbelievable as hundreds of South Africans fly into Paris to support the Springboks semi-final clash against England”.
ALSO READ: ‘Gloves are off’: Brazen England TikToker wants to meet Eben Etzebeth [watch]
Leanne added that the French airlines were operating two fully booked daily flights – with a 470-seater capacity.
The atmosphere on @AirFranceZA was unbelievable as hundreds of South Africans fly into Paris to support the @Springboks semi final clash against England.@AirFranceZA operating 2 flights per day – 470 capacity – every seat booked!! #StrongerTogether #sabcnews pic.twitter.com/V0PxeIrwAS
— Leanne Manas (@LeanneManas) October 19, 2023
On social media, we’ve seen the likes of celebs like Thando Thabethe, Siv Ngesi, Jason Goliath, and even Anele Mdoda.
Retired rugby stars like Victor Matfield, John Smit, and Bryan Habana are also showing their support.
ALSO READ: ‘Flown to France for vibes?’: Lukhanyo Am left off Springboks squad again
GOVERNMENT SHOWS UP TOO
Meanwhile, Minister of Sport Zizi Kodwa is expected to join thousands of Saffas at the stadium.
He said in a statement: “I have been watching South Africans from all walks of life occupying the stands in France when the Springboks play, singing our national anthem proudly and loudly.
ALSO READ: ‘Score was settled’: Rassie Erasmus takes shot at England, France rugby teams
“This is very important for our nation-building. Continue flying the South African flag high. We are stronger together!”
And President Cyril Ramaphosa has promised to be at the finals, hopefully cheering on the Springboks.
2500 EXTRA TICKETS GO ON SALE
According to Evening Standard reporter Chris Jones, the Rugby World Cup site has released an extra 2500 tickets for Saturday’s England vs SA match and 3200 for the New Zealand vs Argentina game on Friday.
ALSO READ: Winning streak? Springboks to wear green, gold at semi-final
The tickets can be purchased directly from the site.
Currently 3,200 resale tickets available for @AllBlacks v @lospumas and 2,500 for @EnglandRugby v @Springboks There are also tickets available that have not been snapped up before for the semi-finals @rugbyworldcup
— chris jones (@chrisjonespress) October 18, 2023