The symbolism was dramatic with the black leader of his nation and the white captain of the rugby side, both clad in Springbok jerseys bearing the same number six, fuelling the optimism and nerves of the 72,000 spectators at the famous park.
Mandela had replaced his usual casual shirt for the green rugby jersey which had been a sign of the oppressive regime in South Africa. Mandela wanted to break those chains while also embracing some of the traditional history of his Rainbow Nation.
This was Madiba at his galvanizing best, a man then in his late 70's whose appearance with his quiet yet deliberate speech was the nation's most powerful weapon.
The tumult which had engulfed the stadium since the gates opened, grew even louder.
Expectation had dizzied South Africa while the All Blacks were listing after illness swept through them late in the week.
When Mandela walked onto the ground before kickoff and returned for the presentation for the Webb Ellis Trophy, the torrents of joy seemed to override the relentless cacophony during the game.
No one wanted to leave. Many had been there for hours before the consuming extra-time final and wanted to stay for hours afterwards.
They danced and sang into the night, proclaiming their rugby heroes and the special powers of Nelson Mandela. In many areas of life in South Africa, the great man delivered that sort of direction. He was a noble leader with great hopes for his country and populace.
Now it's time for them to repay his service.