When South Africa lifted the Rugby World Cup 2027 in 2019. Tt marked the beginning of a dominant era for the Springboks. Besides for England winger Anthony Watson, it became one of the most defining moments of his career. Although it now feels like a lifetime ago, Watson still remembers the final in Yokohama with remarkable clarity.
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The Springboks overpowered England 32–12 to claim their third world title. Delivering one of the most commanding performances ever seen in a Rugby World Cup final. For Watson, who earned more than 50 caps and scored 23 tries for England before retiring last year due to injury, that match remains both a career highlight and a lesson he carries with him today.
Speaking recently, Watson reflected honestly on England’s defeat and what separated the two teams on the biggest stage in rugby. He admitted South Africa were simply better prepared, not just tactically, but mentally besides emotionally too, at the Rugby World Cup 2027.
South Africa deserved to win that World Cup, Watson said. We probably went into that final as favorites, and with that comes expectation. I think we knew exactly what they were going to bring physically, but emotionally, they were in a better place than we were. That made a huge difference.
Watson Reveals the Real Difference in England’s Rugby World Cup Loss
In addition, The 2019 Rugby World Cup final was billed as England’s chance to reclaim global rugby supremacy after their famous semi-final victory over New Zealand. Eddie Jones’ side had dismantled the All Blacks with relentless pressure, precision kicking, besides dominant defense. Many expected England to carry that momentum into the final.
Instead, South Africa delivered a ruthless display built on power, set-piece dominance, besides clinical finishing. Watson’s reflections highlight how elite rugby matches are often decided not just by skill or tactics, but by mindset. While England arrived full of confidence, the Springboks were driven by something deeper.
Under head coach Rassie Erasmus, South Africa had built a squad united by resilience, emotional strength, and belief qualities forged through years of adversity both on and off the field. The emotional side was the biggest lesson for me, Watson explained. You assume as a player that you’ll get another chance at a final, another Rugby World Cup, another moment like that.
But you might not. That really sticks with you. Those words carry even more weight given Watson’s career ended earlier than expected. After battling injuries, the former Bath besides Leicester Tigers winger retired at just 30 years old. Despite that, his England career remains one to be proud of, including two Rugby World Cup campaigns and some of the most memorable tries scored in modern English rugby.
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Why the 2019 Rugby World Cup Final Still Resonates for Watson
Yet, the 2019 final stands apart. Even in defeat, playing in a Rugby World Cup Final represents the pinnacle of the sport, and Watson describes the experience as unforgettable. The atmosphere, the global audience, and the sense of occasion all combined to create a moment that few players ever reach and even fewer forget.
From South Africa’s perspective, that victory launched one of the most successful eras in its rugby history. The Springboks would go on to defend their title in 2023, becoming the most successful nation in Rugby World Cup history. The seeds of that dominance were clearly planted in 2019, when they outmuscled and outthought England in a performance that set new standards for finals rugby.
Watson believes the Springboks’ emotional readiness was as important as their physical edge. While England had prepared extensively for South Africa’s direct style and set-piece strength, they struggled to match the intensity and composure their opponents brought to the contest.
In big games, it’s about taking your opportunities, Watson said. South Africa did that. We didn’t. At this level, you might only get two or three chances in a match like that, and you have to take them. Rugby World Cup Final.
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Why Mental Strength Defines Rugby World Cup Winners
For England fans, the loss remains a painful memory, but Watson’s honesty provides valuable insight into what it takes to succeed at the highest level of international Rugby World Cup. Preparation, confidence, and tactical clarity are essential, but emotional resilience, adaptability, and mindset can be the difference between lifting the Webb Ellis Cup and walking away disappointed.
As rugby looks ahead to the next Rugby World Cup cycle, Watson’s reflections serve as a powerful reminder to players and fans alike: opportunities at the elite level are rare, and nothing is guaranteed. Even the most talented squads and experienced internationals can find themselves on the wrong side of history if they are not mentally and emotionally aligned on the day.
Despite the heartbreak of 2019, Watson remains grateful for the experience. To play in a Rugby World Cup final, represent England on the biggest stage, and be part of such a defining moment in rugby history is something few athletes ever achieve.
And while the result didn’t go England’s way, the lessons from that night in Japan continue to shape his perspective long after retirement. In many ways, that match didn’t just crown South Africa as world champions; it reshaped careers, legacies, and the emotional understanding of what it takes to win at the very top of international rugby.
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