Rugby World Cup 2015 - All Blacks v South Africa: Why Heyneke Meyer wants to buy Steve Hansen a beer

Rival World Cup semifinal coaches Steve Hansen and Heyneke Meyer share something in common at every test - beer.

Meyer, whose Springboks are heavy underdogs for the clash at Twickenham, told media that a firm friendship has developed between the pair after Hansen broke the ice.

They have met each other's families and "have a great rapport". The winner always buys the loser a beer after tests.

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Meyer said: "We started a tradition way back...the first time I lost I was very down. He came over and brought me a beer.

"He said 'I know how you feel, I know the pressure on you, just have a beer with me'. I really respected that."

Meyer was so down after another loss that "I didn't want to go into that function" so Hansen chased him down with another beer.

Meyer finally got to return serve in Johannesburg last year.

Meyer and Hansen are close friends. Photo / Getty Images

"I had said to Steve that I can't wait...to bring you a beer. I said the first time (South Africa wins), I'll bring you a case of beer."

Meyer said despite the intense rivalry, the two coaches learn from each other and had a "great rapport". There was similar respect between the players.

"You would think that I would sit here and bad mouth them, and try to get into their heads. But you won't see that from us and them."