Blitzboks' defensive masterclass praised after stunning Olympic upset over New Zealand

It's a win that will see them contest for a medal when they face France at 15h30 on Saturday in the semi-finals of the tournament.

After a disappointing opening day that saw them lose to both Ireland and New Zealand, the Blitzboks beat Japan by 49-5 to sneak into the playoffs as the last qualifying team.

They had to beat Japan by at least 21 points but did much better than that to give them some much-needed momentum heading into the play-offs.

The Blitzboks then showed incredible determination to eliminate tournament favourites New Zealand 14-7 in the quarter-finals, defending like mad men for the entire second half to keep the Kiwis out despite their best efforts.

It was an impressive turnaround from a team that looked down and out on day one, and Snyman said it was nothing less than the players deserved.

"They deserve to be in the semi-finals, as they have executed and delivered everything I have asked from them today," Snyman said after the match.

"We did not play poorly on day one, we just could not get our hands on the ball, but today was a different performance, a really inspiring one.

"We needed to win big against Japan and scored seven well-worked tries, but against New Zealand, our defence was going to be crucial and I am so proud of how the guys responded."

Snyman said he had a good feeling about the ability of the players selected to travel to the world showpiece.

"Once we made it into the quarters, I told them to start believing that it is possible," said Snyman.

"I had a good feeling about the ability of the side, so once we were into the last eight, it was time to remind them of that.

"This was such a great win, built on defence and workrate, while we struck when we needed to. In fact, we left another try or two out there. These guys deserve to contest for a medal, they showed that tonight."

READ MORE: Jake White elated over Ruan Nortje's Bok inclusion: 'A testament to hard work'