Bloem Hosts Historic Rugby Match

Written by: Karabo Peter

The Springboks return to Bloemfontein’s Toyota Stadium for the first time in almost two years after it was confirmed as the venue where they are set to face Portugal in the historic first test between the two nations on Saturday, July 20.

The back-to-back Rugby World Cup champions return to Bloemfontein since their narrow 13-12 loss against Wales in 2022.

The confirmation of Bloemfontein as the venue for the Test between Springboks and Os Lobos will wrap up South Africa’s incoming series, comprising a thrilling 2024 home Test schedule, which kicks-off with a two-test series with current Six Nations champions Ireland in Pretoria and Durban on July 6 and 13, respectively.

South Africa will then go against New Zealand in Johannesburg and Cape Town on August 31 and September, respectively, before taking on Argentina in Nelspruit on Saturday, September 28.

“We are delighted that we will be returning to Bloemfontein for this historic match, and we are determined to continue to make our passionate supporters proud,” said SA Rugby’s director of rugby, Rassie Erasums.

“With the venue now confirmed we can go full steam ahead with our planning for the home tests from an operational perspective.

“There is no doubt it has added to the excitement for the season ahead, especially after capping off the 2023 season by defending the Rugby World Cup title.”

2024 Test Matches Schedule

6 July 2024

SA vs Ireland (Loftus Versveld, Pretoria)

13 July 2024

SA vs Ireland (Kings Park, Durban)

20 July 2024

SA vs Portugal (Toyota Stadium, Bloemfontein)

31 August 2024

SA vs New Zealand (Ellis Park Stadium, Johannesburg)

7 September 2024

SA vs New Zealand (DHL Stadium, Cape Town)

28 September 2024

SA vs Argentina (Mbombela Stadium, Nelspruit)