Which nation won the first Rugby World Cup match played in Africa?

South Africa won the first Rugby World Cup match played in Africa, defeating Australia 27–18 in the 1995 opening match.

The match took place at Newlands in Cape Town on 25 May 1995, opening the third men’s Rugby World Cup. South Africa scored three tries, while fly-half Joel Stransky added 12 points from kicks. Australia, the defending champion, scored two tries but could not overcome the hosts.

The 1995 tournament was the first Rugby World Cup hosted in Africa. It was also South Africa’s first appearance in the competition after the country’s readmission to international sport following the end of apartheid-era isolation.

South Africa ultimately won the tournament, beating New Zealand 15–12 after extra time in the final at Ellis Park. The opening victory and the later title became central moments in the Springboks’ sporting history.