Richard Dean
Updated on: October 8, 2024 2:48 pm GMT
The Wallabies are set to continue their Rugby Championship campaign as they face off against Argentina in Santa Fe on September 8, 2023. The match will kick off at 5:00 AM AEST, marking a significant fixture in the tournament as both teams aim for victory and a solid position in the championship standings.
Match Details
The highly anticipated clash will take place at Estadio Brigadier General Estanislao López, colloquially known as “The Elephant Graveyard.” With a capacity of 42,000, the stadium is expected to be filled with passionate fans eager to support their teams. Broadcast coverage will be exclusively available on Stan Sport, beginning at 4:40 AM AEST, providing fans with ad-free viewing as the action unfolds.
Recent Performances
The Wallabies are coming off a narrow victory against Los Pumas, having edged out a 20-19 win in their previous encounter. Coach Joe Schmidt has made strategic changes to the lineup, including the inclusion of Ben Donaldson and Max Jorgensen in the starting XV. The team is looking to secure back-to-back wins, a rare achievement for the Wallabies in recent years.
Argentina, meanwhile, is keen to rebound from their close loss. The match will also be a milestone for their captain, Julian Montoya, who is set to earn his 100th cap, further motivating the team. Coach Felipe Contepomi’s side opened the tournament with an impressive display against New Zealand, scoring 38 points in a memorable win.
Team Lineups
Both teams have made adjustments in response to their performances. Below are the lineups:
Wallabies Starting XV
- 1. Angus Bell
- 2. Matt Faessler
- 3. Taniela Tupou
- 4. Nick Frost
- 5. Jeremy Williams
- 6. Rob Valetini
- 7. Carlo Tizzano
- 8. Harry Wilson (c)
- 9. Jake Gordon
- 10. Ben Donaldson
- 11. Max Jorgensen
- 12. Hamish Stewart
- 13. Len Ikitau
- 14. Marika Koroibete
- 15. Andrew Kellaway
Wallabies Reserves
- 16. Josh Nasser
- 17. James Slipper
- 18. Allan Alaalatoa
- 19. Josh Canham
- 20. Langi Gleeson
- 21. Tate McDermott
- 22. Tom Lynagh
- 23. Josh Flook
Argentina Starting XV
- 1. Joel Sclavi
- 2. Julian Montoya (c)
- 3. Guido Petti
- 4. Tomas Lavanini
- 5. Pablo Matera
- 6. Marcos Kremer
- 7. Juan Martin Gonzalez
- 8. Thomas Gallo
- 9. Gonzalo Bertranou
- 10. Tomas Albornoz
- 11. Mateo Carreras
- 12. Santiago Chocobares
- 13. Lucio Cinti
- 14. Bautista Delguy
- 15. Juan Cruz Mallia
Argentina Reserves
- 16. Eduardo Bello
- 17. Mayco Vivas
- 18. Ignacio Ruiz
- 19. Franco Molina
- 20. Joaquin Oviedo
- 21. Santiago Grondona
- 22. Gonzalo Garcia
- 23. Santiago Carreras
Key Player Milestones
The upcoming match is significant for both teams as they celebrate important player milestones. For the Wallabies, James Slipper is set to equal George Gregan’s record with his 139th Test cap. His veteran experience is expected to bring leadership to the field, as noted by skipper Harry Wilson, who emphasized the importance of winning for Slipper and the team.
Game Day Execution
With perfect weather conditions in Santa Fe, the Wallabies will aim to execute a free-flowing rugby style, capitalizing on the favorable pitch. The team’s coaches are optimistic about implementing an expansive game plan, which has been hindered in previous matches due to inclement weather.
As the match approaches, both teams will engage in final preparations, focusing on strategies to counter each other’s strengths. The Wallabies, aiming to build on their momentum from last week’s match, know that a victory would not only boost their standings in the Rugby Championship but also enhance team morale and cohesion moving forward.
Looking Ahead
Following the match against Argentina, the Wallabies will return home to Sydney for the Bledisloe Cup against the All Blacks, marking an important period in their season as they build toward future competitions. The outcome of the match this Saturday could set the tone for their performance in upcoming fixtures.
Fans are encouraged to follow the live action through Rugby.com.au’s live blog for updates and match commentary.
The Wallabies are getting ready to play Argentina again in Santa Fe, and both teams are excited for the game. Fans from both countries can’t wait for the match to start, hoping to see some amazing rugby skills on the field.
