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Much changed Argentina line-up named to take on Ireland
Argentina have named a much-changed team for Friday’s Nations Championship match against Ireland in Dublin, retaining just two starters from their last Test in September. The stronger line-up reflects the return of Europe-based players and gives the Pumas a chance to seek their first win over Ireland in Dublin.
Captain Julián Montoya returns, with Pablo Matera and Boris Wenger the only other players retained in the starting side. Santiago Chocobares is included despite a recent head knock, while Santiago Carreras is out with a serious knee injury and prop Thomas Gallo is absent after wrist surgery. Argentina’s previous 11 visits to Dublin have ended in defeat; their last Test, against Australia, was a 28-28 draw.
In short
- Argentina kept only two starters from their September Test.
- Julián Montoya returns to captain the side against Ireland.
- The Pumas are seeking their first win in Dublin.
Explained simply
Argentina and Ireland play rugby union as international sides, with the Pumas the nickname for Argentina’s team. The Nations Championship is a series of matches between northern and southern hemisphere teams, and Dublin is Ireland’s home ground for this fixture.
Argentina’s squad draws many players from European clubs, so their availability can shape the team selected for Tests. Julián Montoya is the captain, while Santiago Carreras and Thomas Gallo are among the players missing through injury or recovery from surgery.
Argentina have not won a Test in Dublin in 11 visits. Their last match was a draw with Australia, and their previous meeting with Ireland was part of a long-running international rivalry between the two sides.