Pumas Lineup Announced for Nations Championship Clash Against South Africa

Los Pumas have revealed their squad for the test match against South Africa on August 8 at the José Amalfitani Stadium in Vélez Sarsfield. Head coach Felipe Contepomi has selected a team with a majority of reserve players or those who do not typically start. Pablo Matera will captain the side in the absence of Julián Montoya, with Guido Petti serving as vice-captain and partnering Tomás Lavanini in the second row. Lavanini's return to the national team after a two-year absence is a significant boost. The starting lineup includes several players with limited international experience, such as Benjamín Grondona, Joaquín Moro, Ignacio Mendy, Faustino Sánchez Valarolo, and Gerónimo Prisciantelli. Francisco Moreno is set to make his debut, and three additional players on the bench could also earn their first caps. South Africa, coached by Rassie Erasmus, will see the return of captain Siya Kolisi, who missed the Nations Championship in July, and Eben Etzebeth, whose last appearance was in November 2025. Despite not fielding their full usual starting lineup, the Springboks are expected to field a high-caliber team with experienced replacements like Handre Pollard. Historically, South Africa has dominated the fixture, with 35 wins out of 40 encounters. Argentina's last victory was a narrow 29-28 win in Santiago del Estero in 2024.