Greatest Rivalry match makes US history – thanks to SA rugby fans

The Springboks vs All Blacks’ Greatest History finale in Baltimore set a record for the largest stadium crowd for a rugby match.

The M&T Bank Stadium in Maryland reported an almost 69 000 spectator attendance. It marked the first time South Africa and New Zealand have played in the US.

The Boks clinched their third consecutive victory – 43-24 – and the inaugural Greatest Rivalry title.

GREATEST RIVALRY NETS LARGEST RUGBY CROWD

According to statistics, the Springboks vs All Blacks’ Greatest History finale at the M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore attracted around 68,173 rugby spectators – a record high for a rugby match in the US.

The crowd was made up mostly of South African and New Zealand diaspora, with a sea of green-and-gold Springbok-wearing supporters in the stands.

Social media users casually nicknamed the event “Baltfontein” and the “United States of South Africa”.

Crowds of expats also flocked to a concert headlined by South African singer Jesse Clegg and the nearest Nando’s in Baltimore.

Springboks captain said in a post-match interview: “It was super special. It was crazy the amount of people who came out to support us. I want to thank every single South African here and back at home. We are so grateful. We do it for you each and every time.”

The Boks have only played in the US twice this millennium before the Greatest Rivalry match.

Baltimore itself is hoping to to be selected as a host city to the 2031 Rugby World Cup, set to take place in the US.

MZANSI DOES IT BIGGER AND BETTER

Baltimore’s stadium does not compare to the almost 86 000 rugby supporters who watched the Springboks and All Blacks Greatest Rivalry match the FNB Stadium last weekend.

The stadium is the largest on the African continent and has a 95 000 seater capacity.