South Africa managed to beat Italy 32-14 despite one of their players receiving a red card.
The world champions, who had previously defeated France even without Lood de Jager, once again came out on top, this time in the absence of Franco Mostert.
Mostert was sent off after making shoulder contact with opposing fly-half Paolo Garbisi’s head and failing to wrap his arms during the tackle.
The Springboks finished the first half 10-3 ahead thanks to Marco van Staden’s converted try. Italy came closer with two penalties from Garbisi, but they could not capitalize on their temporary two-player advantage following Van Staden’s yellow card for a ruck infringement.
Scrum-half Morne van den Berg scored South Africa’s second try while Italy’s Lorenzo Cannone was in the sin-bin. The home side responded with a try from Ange Capuozzo off an inside pass, but late scores from Grant Williams and Ethan Hooker secured the victory for the Springboks.
South Africa will complete their tournament by facing Ireland in one week and Wales two weeks later.
Quilter Nations Series
Italy (3) 14
Try: Capuozzo Pens: Garbisi 3
South Africa (10) 32
Tries: Van Staden, Van den Berg, Williams, Hooker Cons: Pollard 2, Libbok Pens: Pollard 2