The Auckland Pasifika Students Choir delivered a passionate rendition of the South African national anthem ahead of the Springboks vs All Blacks game at Eden Park.
The youth choir, which also sang the New Zealand anthem, sang Nkosi Sikel iAfrika for the first time on a world stage.
PRAISE FOR AUCKLAND CHOIR WHO SANG SA NATIONAL ANTHEM
Typically, South African singers perform the national anthem at Springbok test matches. However, rugby fans were in for a pleasant surprise when New Zealand’s Auckland Pasifika Students Choir sang Nkosi Sikel iAfrika with ease and grace.
From pronunciation to passion, the youth choir were praised for their mesmerising performance.
Author and activist Khaya Dlanga posted on X: “That choir sang our anthem like they are South African!”. Sports broadcaster Motshidisi Mohono added: “Both anthems so beautifully sung”.
Take a look…
SPRINGBOKS VS ALL BLACKS: ‘WE’RE BROTHERS OFF THE FIELD’
The Springboks and All Blacks are known for their longstanding fierce rivalry as well as mutual respect.
“Huge respect to the Springboks, and we hugely respect Eden Park and our home,” AB captain Ardie Savea, who made his 100th test match appearance, said this week.
He added: “To be able to go out there firstly and be named to play against the Springboks in this test match is a great challenge, and something that you know is going to be hard and tough, but something for all of us to work towards.”
He added: “First and foremost, we’re just human beings,…We’re men, we’re husbands and fathers. Siya’s [Kolisi] the same as me. We’re just brothers off the field”.
DID THE NEW ZEALAND CHOIR NAIL THE SPRINGBOK, SOUTH AFRICAN NATIONAL ANTHEM?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1.
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