Los Pumas Face World Champions South Africa in Test Match

The Argentine national rugby team, Los Pumas, is set to face the reigning world champions, South Africa, in a highly anticipated test match this Saturday, August 8. The game will be held at the José Amalfitani Stadium in Vélez, with kickoff scheduled for 4 p.m. local time. Fans can watch the match live on ESPN 2 and stream it online via Flow, DGO, and Disney+ Premium.

Under the guidance of coach Felipe Contepomi, Los Pumas have had a mixed year with two losses and one win in the Nations Championship. This match against the Springboks presents a significant opportunity for the team to gauge their level against one of the world's elite. The starting lineup sees the notable return of Tomás Lavanini, who has been absent for two years, bolstering the team's forward pack alongside players like Guido Petti and Pablo Matera.

South Africa's Springboks also feature key players returning to the field. Captain Siya Kolisi, who missed the Nations Championship matches against England, Scotland, and Wales, is back, as is lock Eben Etzebeth. While not fielding their absolute strongest lineup, the Springboks present a formidable team, including players like Aphelele Fassi, Canan Moodie, and Andre Esterhuizen.

Springboks head coach Rassie Erasmus expressed deep respect for Los Pumas, recalling a past defeat in Argentina that he described as the team's worst since he took charge. He acknowledged the familiarity between the teams, noting that many South African players compete alongside Argentines in French clubs. Historically, South Africa has dominated the fixture, winning 35 of their 40 encounters, with Argentina securing four victories and one draw. The Pumas' last win was a narrow 29-28 victory in Santiago del Estero in 2024.

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We want to beat Argentina, something really difficult. We have lost here and they gave us the worst beating since we have been leading this team. We know Argentina well. We play against them twice a year. Some of ours are their teammates in French clubs. We know their players and they know us.