With a return fixture to come next week, Erasmus has rested a couple of key figures, with Siya Kolisi in the coaches’ box rather than on the pitch as he manages a facial injury. Argentina may therefore spy an opportunity to cause a shock — the hosts are full of confidence after producing a record win against Australia a fortnight ago.

A blistering first half saw no fewer than seven tries as Los Pumas fought back from an early South African onslaught. The Springboks flew out of the traps with tries from Aphelele Fassi and Jesse Kriel helping them to a 14-point lead before Handre Pollard added three more from a penalty kick.

South Africa will win the Rugby Championship if they overcome Argentina on Saturday but a defeat would see them lose their number one ranking. While the Springboks beat the All Blacks twice to retain their spot at the summit,