Pretoria - The Springboks are bracing fro a fired-up Argentina outfit in Saturday's Test at Loftus Versfeld.

Kikc-off is at 17:05.

Springbok assistant coach Matt Proudfoot and lock Lood de Jager were united in predicting an Argentinian backlash after their 46-13 defeat to South Africa in Salta last weekend.

"The ferocity of their defence and their maul on Saturday was outstanding," Proudfoot told the SA Rugby website, dismissing suggestions that the Pumas had been 'timid'.

'"They were ferocious. They moved Marcos Cremer to lock to cover for Tomas Lavanini and when you have him and players like Pablo Matera in the side you re up against some of the toughest guys you will ever play.

"If I was their coach, I would be pressing their buttons this week. They'll be hurting and this is their last test match before the World Cup. This is going to be very important to them."

De Jager agreed: "It's going to be a massive Test match," he said.

"Argentina are coming here on a mission. I think they're coming a bit hurt after last weekend and with something to prove."

The 2015 SA Rugby Player of the Year said the Springbok team would not be in a dissimilar position.

"A lot of guys will be getting an opportunity, having been on the sideline, so I think the whole team is very excited for this weekend," said De Jager.

"The guys that have been selected have done an amazing job so they are playing well - there's a lot of strength in depth and there's a lot of healthy competition - and I must emphasise the word 'healthy' competition.

"It's not about guys being nasty to each other, it's guys looking after each other and helping each other and I think that's what helped us win the Championship and will help us win on Saturday."

Proudfoot said the team and squad was in an excellent state of preparation.

"Everyone is very happy and Rassie's plan and his honesty about where everyone stood and what the medium term plan looked like going to the world cup has ben very clear," said Proudfoot.

"He was open and up front with the players and that has created great competition in the squad."