It is the Springboks’ second consecutive title, with New Zealand, who earlier in the day outplayed Australia in Perth, in second place. Both teams had 19 log points, but the Springboks had a +57 points’ difference and the All Blacks’ +8.

Argentina held a three-point lead at half-time, but conceded 19 points in the second half to lose their grip on the match. Los Pumas did score two tries in the final ten minutes to cut the lead. They left it too late to stop the Springboks from claiming another win in front of more than 70,000 supporters at the home of England Rugby.

After the Test, Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus said although his team’s performance was far from perfect, he was obviously pleased with the result.

“I’m satisfied with the result and winning the Rugby Championship back-to-back. This was a massive game for us, and although it was far from a perfect performance, I would prefer to see us learn while we are winning than losing.” 

“We are still in a good position for the Rugby World Cup draw, but there is no doubt we have five tough matches ahead, and there is a lot of work ahead for us.”

Springbok captain Siya Kolisi said the halftime message was clear and to the point.

“It was simple, and we all felt the same as the coaches. We needed to play with more unity, make fewer mistakes, and concede fewer penalties.”  

“But that said, all credit to Argentina. We knew they would come out fighting like that, and we know their mindset, so we knew we had to keep fighting until the end.” 

The Springboks will now have a break before embarking on their European tour in November. Their Test will be against Wales in Cardiff, followed by Tests against France, the first meeting between the two nations since the Rugby World Cup quarter-finals in 2023, as well as Italy and Ireland.

OFM Sport/Ilse Smalberger