The Springboks paid the price for failure to take their chances as Andy Farrell's impressive Ireland side emerged 13-8 winners in Paris.
Ireland forwards coach Paul O'Connell insists the Springboks have an "incredible" replacement for the injured Malcolm Marx in utility forward Deon Fourie.
The Springboks are fully embracing and welcoming the challenge of squaring off against a formidable Ireland outfit in Paris on Saturday night.
Former Springbok captain Bobby Skinstad believes that one player in particular will be crucial if they are to overcome the number one ranked side Ireland this weekend.
Faf de Klerk shone a rare spotlight on the Springboks' internal culture on Thursday, as he revealed having great people in the team is just as important as having great players.
Rassie Erasmus and Jacques Nienaber have dismissed suggestions their decision to use a 7-1 bench split presents a safety risk to the opposition.