Djougang scores twice as Ireland beat South Africa 40-27 in Cape Town

Ireland beat South Africa 40-27 in Cape Town on Saturday, scoring six tries in the opening match of their two-game WXV Global Series meeting. According to BBC Sport's match report, Linda Djougang crossed twice as Ireland marked their first visit to South Africa with a victory, although the hosts remained competitive through a first half that produced three tries for each side.

Watch the highlights:

Dannah O'Brien's kicking helped separate the teams. The Ireland fly-half converted five of her side's six tries, while South Africa added only one conversion to their five touchdowns. Ireland led 21-17 at the interval, having recovered from a spell behind while captain Erin King was serving a yellow card for a high tackle. The visitors then increased their advantage after the break.

Aoife Dalton opened Ireland's scoring from close range after carries by Robyn O'Connor and Jane Clohessy had taken the attack towards the posts. South Africa answered through number eight Aseza Hele, who broke through the visiting defence for an individual try. King's temporary dismissal further disrupted Ireland's opening period, and Vainah Ubisi put the home side ahead after 27 minutes.

Djougang replied with a try beneath the posts, but the lead continued to change hands before half-time. Maria Tshiremba finished in the corner for South Africa, only for Clohessy to cross at the other end. O'Brien converted the second row's try to send Ireland into the interval four points ahead rather than facing a deficit after a closely contested opening half.

Beibhinn Parsons and King scored after the restart to give Ireland more room on the scoreboard. Lerato Makua responded for South Africa, but Djougang's second try secured the visitors' position before Alichia Arries added a late score for the hosts. Ireland's win came despite handling mistakes, with BBC Sport highlighting their defensive line speed and ability to sustain attacks through multiple phases.

The teams will meet again at Athlone Stadium on 31 October. Before this match, their only previous encounter had been at the 2006 Women's Rugby World Cup in Canada, when Ireland won 37-0. South Africa's five tries this time made for a much closer contest, but Ireland's extra touchdown and stronger conversion return delivered a 13-point victory.