Although the South Africans are wary of the strength of Argentina's forward pack, Coetzee said they were "more comfortable" facing a team known for their power rather than pace.

"The one thing about the Fijians is that you can't give them the space because all the islanders have that pace and so I think we will be more comfortable (against Argentina)," he said.

"We (South Africans) always put ourselves in difficult situations - and fortunately we have got out of it so far," Coetzee said.

With the Fiji scare safely behind them, they turn their attention to Argentina, arguably the most consistent team at this tournament. Smal said the key to winning the semi-final was in his area of responsibility.

"That (the forwards) is obviously their strength. Their whole game is played around that. They are a good scrumming pack, a good mauling pack and their line-out is not too shabby as well," he said, adding the Springboks would have to control the ball carrier and be accurate in cleaning out around the ruck.

Coetzee said the scrum had been decisive at this Rugby world cup , as evidenced by Australia's capitulation in the face of the experienced English pack.

"It is going to be a tactical game. We have got to be tactically up to it and play them correctly. Physically, you have to stand up against the Argentineans. If you don't, you will have no chance," Coetzee said.