Springboks great Victor Matfield has debunked one of the Springboks' legendary advantages over the All Blacks as mere myth.
The former lineout extraordinaire says both sets of players' lungs will burn this weekend in Pretoria, not just the visiting All Blacks'.
He believes the ground gives the hosts no particular edge, and that it may even favour NZ as they seek revenge for their 36-34 defeat to the South Africans in Wellington.
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Renowned as the modern king of Loftus Versfeld, Matfield says the trip to the city that sits 1300 metres above sea level does the Springboks few favours.
"They've only arrived at altitude this week," Matfield told Newshub. "So that opportunity and that advantage isn't really there for the Springboks.
"When you play for the Bulls you are here and get used to the altitude. You want the game to be quick so they run out of legs. "
And history agrees with the 127-test veteran. Although they haven't played there since 2006, the New Zealanders have claimed five of the previous six tests with their traditional rivals at the Bulls' home ground.
He puts that success down to a difference in their approach to the game.
"I think [the All Blacks] like ball in hand. It's always nice here and they can kick the ball far. It's a quick game."
Matfield believes South Africa will be pleased with their progress under new coach Rassie Erasmus, with the side starting to adapt to the changes he's introduced, particularly their defensive tactics.
"They're coming much harder off the line these days. In the beginning that was a problem and they gave away quite a few tries, but I think they're getting used to that now and they're putting good teams under pressure with that system."
That brand of 'rush' defense proved successful for both Ireland and the British and Irish Lions against the world champions last year. It suffocated the All Blacks' outside backs and was clearly effective in limiting their threat.
"That's probably what they had a look at – who were the teams that really put the All Blacks under pressure.
"Now New Zealand has had time to have a look at that and we'll see if they can come with a counter."
After a test which came down to the wire at Westpac Stadium, Matfield is expecting another tight tussle between the two heavyweights and points to one decisive factor.
"The advantage line is going to be very important again," he noted. "We saw that if the Springbok forwards get on the front foot it opens up the opportunities for our backs.
"And it's the other way around as well. The moment the All Blacks get momentum, you can't stop them. They just come wave after wave. Whoever controls that advantage line should control the game.
"It's going to be an amazing clash. You can feel it in Pretoria, everyone is waiting for the game on Saturday."
Newshub.
