Argentina Unveils Experienced Lineup to Face British & Irish Lions
Rugby fans are gearing up for a thrilling showdown as Felipe Contepomi has revealed Argentina’s starting fifteen to face the British & Irish Lions at the Aviva Stadium this Friday. The team features seasoned veterans, promising an intense contest with a history of close matches.
Experienced Pumas Take the Field
Contepomi has chosen a squad with plenty of experience. Captain Julian Montoya and veteran Pablo Matera, who both have over a hundred test caps, will be starting. This marks five adjustments from Argentina’s most recent match, a defeat against France last November.
The forward pack sees Franco Molina and Mayco Vivas brought in. Vivas is joined in the front row by Joe Sclavi and Montoya. The tight five is completed by Pedro Rubiolo and Molina. Matera and Juan Martin González will play as flankers, with Joaquin Oviedo at number eight.
In the backline, Ignacio Mendy, Justo Piccardo, and Santiago Carreras will be starting. Gonzalo Garcia retains his place at scrum-half. He partners with Tomas Albornoz, who plays for Benetton. Lucio Cinti joins Piccardo in the centers. Former World Rugby Sevens Player of the Year Rodrigo Isgro rounds out the back three.
On the bench, Contepomi has opted for a 5/3 split. The replacements include Bautista Bernasconi, Boris Wenger, Francisco Coria Marchetti, Santiago Grondona, and Joaquin Moro for forward cover. Simon Benítez Cruz, Matias Moroni, and Santiago Cordero will provide support for the backs.
Looking Back at Past Encounters
The upcoming match marks the first time Argentina has met the British & Irish Lions in two decades. Their previous encounter, in 2005, ended in a 25-25 draw. It’s a testament to the competitiveness between these teams.
Team Details
The Argentina team includes Lucio Centi, Joe Sclavi, and Julian Montoya. The replacements are Bautista Bernasconi, Boris Wenger, Francisco Coria Marchetti, Santiago Grondona, Joaquin Moro, Simon Benítez Cruz, Matias Moroni, and Santiago Cordero.
The match will be held on Friday, June 20, at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin. Kick-off is scheduled for 20:00 BST (19:00 GMT). The referee will be James Doleman (NZR), with Nika Amashukeli (GRU) and Andrea Piardi (FIR) as assistant referees, and Eric Gauzins (FFR) as TMO.
For further information, refer to: British and Irish Lions team v Argentina: When Andy Farrell will name his 23 to face Los Pumas.