Elated Springboks skipper John Smit says he would have settled for any margin of victory in the World Cup final as long as he was hoisting the Webb Ellis Cup after the final whistle.

Both Smit and South African coach Jake White were full of praise for England and its remarkable comeback from the 0-36 thrashing it took from the Springboks in pool play.

"We had 45-million-odd South Africans and the rest of the world shouting for us tonight," Smit said during his post match interview.

"They were a completely different side tonight.

"It really was anyone's game and they (England) played particularly well.

"But I would have taken 3-0," the captain added.

Coach White also agreed England was "much better" than people were giving it credit for and believed Brian Ashton’s men put up a hugely competitive performance in Paris.

"Again, it just shows you how tough World Cups are," White said.

"I always knew we had to play well to win it, but what more can I say - I'm obviously delighted with the result.

"This was important for our country and all credit to the players, they have been unbelievable for South African rugby in last four years."

White praised his team's defence, saying it was a huge factor in the second World Cup title for South Africa.

"That's what wins World Cups.”

Smit also was full of praise for his coach.

"Jake White, what he's done in four years is unbelievable. He has given us the direction and confidence to win this Cup.