Skipper Owen Farrell was proud of England's performance despite South Africa denying them a place in the Rugby World Cup final with a 15-16 victory.
The fly-half converted four penalties and a stunning drop goal to leave his side tantalisingly close to a date with New Zealand.
But RG Snyman's try cut the lead to 15-13 before the Springboks' scrum secured Handre Pollard the winning penalty in the 77th minute.
After the match, Farrell praised his team-mates for their efforts in a "rollercoaster" tournament.
Speaking to BBC Radio 5 Live, he said: "I am unbelievably proud of this group and what they have done over this past few months together.
"It has not all gone our way as everybody knows, we have had everything thrown at us — it's been a rollercoaster.
"I'm glad where we have built to but gutted we don't have a crack at the big one next week. I'm massively proud of this group and I hope everyone back home is as well."
Champion material
South Africa captain Siya Kolisi gave credit to England for making the semi-final showdown a tough battle.
He said: "It's honestly all the hard work we have put in that came off. It was really ugly but that's what champions are made of.
"Credit to England, they've worked hard. They were written off before the World Cup. England's coach Steve Borthwick and Owen [Farrell] and the team pulled themselves together and showed who they are.
"They're not a team you take lightly, all credit to them for being in the semi-finals. It was ugly but we found a way to fight back and get back into the game."
