The Argentina national rugby team, Los Pumas, have announced their starting XV for the upcoming Rugby World Cup clash against Ireland. Head coach Felipe Contepomi has made strategic changes to the lineup that secured a victory against Italy, as the team prepares for this crucial match scheduled for Friday at 17 :10 local time.
Key changes in Argentina’s lineup
Contepomi has introduced three significant modifications to the starting lineup :
- Pablo Matera will replace Santiago Grondona
- Guido Petti takes the position of Franco Molina
- Matías Moroni steps in for Matías Orlando
These alterations reflect the coaching staff’s tactical approach to face the formidable Irish side. Pablo Matera’s return to the starting XV is particularly noteworthy, as he completed a two-week suspension for an incident during the Rugby Championship match against South Africa. His experience and physicality will be crucial in the forward pack.
Guido Petti, hailing from San Isidro Club, makes his reappearance after his last outing in the fifth round of the Rugby Championship. His inclusion bolsters the second row, providing additional lineout options and defensive prowess. Matías Moroni, set to earn his 89th cap, brings a wealth of experience to the backline, potentially offering creative spark in attack.
Another significant development is Santiago Carreras’ return to the squad. Having overcome a muscle injury sustained while playing for Gloucester in the Premiership, Carreras will start on the bench, ready to make an impact as a substitute if called upon.
Potential debut and squad depth
The Pumas’ bench selection showcases the team’s depth and future prospects. Notably, Justo Piccardo, a back from San Isidro Club, stands on the brink of making his international debut. If he enters the field, Piccardo will become Puma number 896, marking a significant milestone in his career and for Argentine rugby.
Piccardo’s potential debut is a testament to Argentina’s commitment to nurturing young talent. First called up to the national squad in July and participating in the Rugby Championship, his inclusion in the World Cup squad highlights the coaching staff’s faith in his abilities.
The full lineup for Argentina’s clash against Ireland is as follows :
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| 1 | Joel Sclavi |
| 2 | Julián Montoya (captain) |
| 3 | Francisco Gómez Kodela |
| 4 | Guido Petti |
| 5 | Pedro Rubiolo |
| 6 | Pablo Matera |
| 7 | Juan Martín González |
| 8 | Joaquín Oviedo |
| 9 | Gonzalo Bertranou |
| 10 | Tomás Albornoz |
| 11 | Matías Moroni |
| 12 | Lucio Cinti |
| 13 | Bautista Delguy |
| 14 | Rodrigo Isgró |
| 15 | Juan Cruz Mallía |
Historical context and recent form
The rivalry between Argentina and Ireland dates back to 1952, with a total of 24 encounters. The historical record stands at 8 wins for Argentina, 15 for Ireland, and 1 draw. Notably, Los Pumas have claimed significant victories in World Cup matches, including triumphs in 1999, 2007, and a memorable 43-20 victory in the 2015 quarter-finals.
Argentina’s recent form has been impressive, highlighted by their historic second-place finish in the Rugby Championship. Their convincing victory over Italy in their previous World Cup match demonstrated the team’s high-level performance and potential. The Pumas displayed remarkable skill and determination, overcoming a formidable Italian side that had shown promise in the Six Nations tournament.
This strong showing has fueled optimism within the Argentine camp. However, the upcoming match against Ireland presents a new level of challenge. Ireland, despite a recent 23-13 loss to the All Blacks at Dublin’s Aviva Stadium, remains a formidable opponent. The Irish team, led by coach Andy Farrell, will be eager to bounce back from that defeat, setting the stage for an intense encounter.
Implications and future prospects
The clash against Ireland is pivotal for Argentina’s World Cup campaign. It will serve as a litmus test for the team’s progress and aspirations in the tournament. A strong performance or victory could significantly boost Los Pumas’ confidence and set them on a path for a deep run in the competition.
Looking beyond this match, Argentina’s European tour continues with a final engagement against France at the Stade de France on November 22. This series of high-profile matches against top-tier nations provides invaluable experience and preparation for the Pumas as they aim to make their mark on the global rugby stage.
As the rugby world turns its attention to this crucial encounter, fans and pundits alike eagerly anticipate a display of skill, strategy, and passion from both sides. The match promises to be a thrilling showcase of international rugby at its finest, with Argentina’s revamped lineup ready to face the challenge head-on.
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