The Pumas have few tests left before the World Cup: everything at stake against Australia

The Pumas have little room left for experiments before the World Cup. In Mendoza, Felipe Contepomi’s team will play its final home match of 2026 against Australia, trying to change the impression left by a 27-21 defeat in Jujuy a week earlier.

The match will take place at the Malvinas Argentina stadium from 6 p.m., while Boca face Gimnasia de Mendoza nearby. The overlap has filled Mendoza’s streets with Boca shirts, but the Pumas are expected to draw their own crowd around Parque San Martín and the stadium.

Argentina enter the rematch with an uncomfortable record: five defeats in their last six appearances. The team used a relaxed captains’ run, attended by children who later entered the field to take photographs with their idols, to complete preparations for a match in which it must improve its play, attitude and result.

Pablo Matera will lead a squad with limited match practice but many weeks together. That time could help the team sharpen its game, although it is no guarantee after Argentina looked erratic with the ball and disorganized in attack in Jujuy. Australia, meanwhile, has moved beyond the effects of jet lag, adapted to the country and gained another match under coach Les Kiss, who has overseen only three games.

The visitors will also field greater firepower. Captain Harry Wilson returns in the back row, while Taniela Tupou brings power at tighthead prop. Filipo Daugunu will also return on the wing. Argentina’s Nicolás Roger will replace Tomás Albornoz at fly-half.