South Africa forwards coach Johann van Graan has stated that the Springboks are focusing solely on their upcoming Pool B matches following their opening fixture loss to Japan.
Two-time champions South Africa were defeated 32-34 by Eddie Jones's side, which represents the first time the country has lost it's opening fixture of the tournament.
"It's a new day and a new game," Van Graan told reporters at a press conference.
Hooker Bismarck du Plessis added: "It was a really tough day for us on Saturday. It was very emotional but we have got to put that emotion aside. The nice thing in this World Cup is that you get another chance.
"If you look at history, the last two World Cup finalists also lost a game in the pool stages. France (runners-up four years ago) actually lost two games. We have to take heart out of that, we can see it's been done and we want to hang on to that hope and give hope for our nation.
"We were very disappointed with our performance last week but the loss to Japan is now in the past and we can only change the future. For us we have to trust our own process, trust what the coach wants us to do. We've got to execute that on the day."
The Springboks sit in third position in Pool B ahead of their clash against table-topping Samoa at Villa Park on September 26.
Colm Hayes
