All Blacks forwards coach Jason Ryan admits that despite their impressive win in Argentina, they will need to improve if they are to beat the Springboks.
Springbok coach Jacques Nienaber says the Springboks will continue to make use of their larger squad throughout the busy World Cup season and at the tournament itself.
Springbok loose forward Kwagga Smith on Tuesday spoke highly of the rivalry between the Springboks and All Blacks as they prepare to cross swords.
Two-time World Cup winning Springbok Frans Steyn announced his retirement from professional rugby, posting the news on social media.
Eben Etzebeth will make his return from a shoulder injury when he captains the Springboks against New Zealand in Auckland on Saturday.
Springbok stand-in captain Duane Vermeulen has confronted the reality that his time in green and gold is nearing an end, just like that of most of his 2019 Rugby World Cup-winning teammates.