PARIS: In the Rugby World Cup’s third-place play-off, Argentina and England are gearing up to face each other on Friday, both recovering from contrasting semi-final losses and having already crossed paths in this tournament.
Argentina, known as the Pumas, endured a tough semi-final encounter as they were overwhelmed by a dominant New Zealand side, suffering a resounding 44-6 defeat. However, they now have an opportunity to achieve their best-ever finish in the competition should they secure a victory at the Stade de France.
Meanwhile, Steve Borthwick’s England, former champions in 2003, put up a valiant performance in their semi-final clash against reigning champions South Africa. England led the game until Handre Pollard’s dramatic 77th-minute kick secured a narrow 16-15 win for the Springboks.
Borthwick, reflecting on the heart-wrenching semi-final loss, expressed his eagerness to see his team develop and adapt in challenging situations, both as a player and a coach. He commended his team’s resilience and determination.
These two teams already crossed paths in the opening match of the World Cup, where England secured a 27-10 victory thanks in part to George Ford’s three drop goals. The game was played under humid conditions in Marseille.
Both Argentina and England demonstrated clinical performances on their journey to the semi-finals, although they fell short against the world’s top two teams.
ALSO READ: Rugby World Cup: South Africa to Face New Zealand Final After Thrashing England
Argentina’s coach, Michael Cheika, emphasized the importance of competing for the bronze medal, highlighting the value it brings to the team’s experience and the legacy of its most seasoned players. Achieving the highest possible finish was always their goal, and it remains a testament to their growth as a rugby-playing nation.
Argentina has reached this stage of the competition twice in the past, notably losing to South Africa in 2015, and previously, they edged past hosts France eight years earlier at the Parc des Princes, a victory that marked their emergence as a prominent rugby nation. Subsequently, they were invited to participate in the annual Tri-Nations, now known as the Rugby Championship, alongside the Springboks, the All Blacks, and Australia.
As they prepare for this crucial match, Cheika has made strategic changes to his team, including the inclusion of 20-year-old lock Pedro Rubiolo, who replaces Tomas Lavanini to partner Guido Petti. Petti acknowledges England’s structured style of play and anticipates a similar approach from the English team, particularly in terms of their kicking game and set pieces.
On the English side, Borthwick has opted not to grant retiring veterans Courtney Lawes and Jonny May a farewell Test. However, experienced scrum-half Ben Youngs will make his final international appearance. The coach has introduced eight changes from the semi-final defeat against the Springboks, providing valuable international experience to young talents like winger Henry Arundell and hooker Theo Dan. Notably, seven of the starting lineup are aged 25 or under, reflecting a strategic focus on nurturing talent for the future.
Despite facing an investigation into allegations of racial abuse during the semi-final, flanker Tom Curry is set to make his 50th appearance for the England national team. Borthwick expressed unwavering confidence in Curry’s desire to play and his exceptional preparation for the match, emphasizing his pride in the player’s commitment.
As Argentina and England prepare to take the field for the Rugby World Cup’s third-place play-off, both teams are determined to end their tournament on a high note and claim the bronze medal, showcasing the resilience and spirit of international rugby.
