Veteran Australia lock Will Skelton is under no illusion as to the challenge that awaits them when they face a wounded Springbok outfit in Cape Town on Saturday.
A visibly disappointed Springbok prop Ox Nche said the hosts have to bounce back strongly next week to get their Rugby Championship campaign back on track.
Coach Rassie Erasmus admitted the Springboks were "really awful" in their unexpected defeat to the Wallabies in their Rugby Championship opener at Ellis Park.
The Wallabies have sprung a surprise by opting for veteran James O'Connor to start at flyhalf for Saturday's Rugby Championship opener against the Springboks at Ellis Park.
Former Springbok captain John Smit reckons this season's Rugby Championship could be tougher, based purely on the fact that South Africa have to travel away to face New Zealand.
Springbok coach Rassie Erasmus is expecting a fierce aerial battle when South Africa host Australia in their Rugby Championship opener at Ellis Park on Saturday.