Rassie Erasmus issues stark warning to Springboks as they prepare to face ‘hostile’ Argentina

Springboks head coach Rassie Erasmus has issued a warning to his troops that the Rugby Championship title isn’t a given as they prepare to face a “hostile” Los Pumas side. 

A win for Erasmus’ men will clinch their first Rugby Championship title since 2019, but Argentina are also within touching distance of the title, following their two wins against New Zealand and Australia.

With plenty on the line ahead of their visit to South America, Erasmus has reminded his team they need to be at their best to win.

“We don’t want to lose”

Speaking ahead of the trip, Erasmus said: “It doesn’t matter how one looks at it, we don’t want to lose against Argentina. It’s exactly the same for them.”

He added: “They must firmly believe they are still in the running for the trophy, so whether we win, or they win, both teams will be very hungry.”

A loss in South America would be the Springboks’ first this Rugby Championship, and only their second in the whole of 2024.

It’s becoming a cliche in the modern game that Los Pumas, and their supporters, are ‘passionate’, but the 67-27 thrashing of Australia showed just what they can do when they and the crowd create a hostile environment in the stadium.

“It’s definitely hostile over there, but we don’t find them to be hostile in terms of fear, but rather passionate fans enjoying supporting their team,” said Erasmus.

Wary of form

Despite the Springboks coming into the game in Santiago as heavy favourites, Los Pumas are also in good touch themselves. They stunned the All Blacks in the opening round of the Rugby Championship, and also claimed a stunning victory in their last Test against Australia.

With their improved showing this championship, Erasmus was quick to praise his opponents.

“They have a few legends there, and they are a well-coached team that beat the All Blacks and registered the biggest score ever over Australia, so in their hearts we have no doubt they’ll believe they can beat us,” he said.

With such a small gap between the sides, Erasmus pointed out his team’s need to be ‘desperate’ to seal a victory.

“I think it will come down to preparation, who pitches up the best on the day, and which side is the most desperate because I don’t think there’s much separating the teams,” he added.