Meyer tipping Boks to become unbeatable

South African coach Heyneke Meyer is predicting big things for his side. Photo / Getty

South Africa coach Heyneke Meyer has forecast his side could become "invincible" after they finished third at the World Cup with a 24-13 playoff win over Argentina.

While falling short of the standards Meyer set for the two-time world champions, third place represented a recovery given South Africa started this tournament with a shock 34-32 loss to Japan - the biggest upset in World Cup history.

South Africa pushed defending champions New Zealand before losing 20-18 in last weekend's semifinal.

But with several Springboks still in their early 20s, including lock Eben Etzebeth who scored a try against the Pumas and fly-half Handre Pollard, who kicked 14 points in the match, the future appears bright for South Africa.

"Having been so close, I think this team can be invincible going forward," said Meyer. "In four years, even another year, they will be a different team."

Whether Meyer will remain in charge, however, is still an open question.

"I truly believe you shouldn't let compliments go to your head, and you shouldn't let criticism go to your heart," said Meyer of the flak he endured following the Japan loss.

After the semifinal defeat, Meyer said Friday's bronze medal match at London's Olympic Stadium was like "kissing your sister".

He explained that remark by saying: "If you drop your standards as coach, and you're happy and jumping up and down with third place you shouldn't be the coach of South Africa."

Meyer, criticised for bringing back Victor Matfield out of retirement last year, paid tribute to the veteran lock, who played his last Test on Friday.

-AAP