New Straits Times

Argentina’s fate rests on must-win game against Tonga

-

Argentina know their Rugby World Cup rests on a must-win game against Tonga in Osaka today.

Semi-finalists in 2007 and 2015, the Pumas started their Group C campaign with a heartbreak­ing 23-21 loss to France.

Argentina were 20-3 behind at the break only to stage a dramatic second-half rally and take a onepoint lead, before a drop goal from Camille Lopez condemned them to an agonising defeat.

England, who’ve beaten both Tonga and the United States in their opening two matches, are expected to top the group and take one of the two quarter-final places on offer.

That means Argentina realistica­lly require a bonus-point win over the Pacific islanders this weekend if they are to deprive France of the second qualifying spot.

“What pains us is how well we played in one half and how badly in the other, knowing all the time that we are perfectly capable of playing 80 minutes of high-intensity, intelligen­t and fast rugby,” said Argentina centre Jeronimo de la Fuente.

“We are fully aware of how important the clash with France was, and it hurt to lose. We are fully confident that we will show up against Tonga, and against England and the USA afterwards.”

Meanwhile, Argentina coach Mario Ledesma insisted all was not lost for his side.

“We must do what we set out to do,” Ledesma said.

“Against France, we didn’t in the first 40 minutes, so this time we must remain focused and overcome our mistakes. The most dangerous teams are the ones who aren’t afraid to make mistakes.”

Pumas captain Pablo Matera added: “If we are talking about confidence, the team stand firm and tall, because what we did during the second half with France we can always replicate.”

Newspapers in English

Newspapers from Malaysia