The Daily Star Ireland
This opening fixture pits a confident Argentina on home soil against the All Blacks, who are hungry to reassert themselves after a mixed run of form. In recent seasons, Los Pumas have stepped up, even securing a historic win in Wellington in 2024. Meanwhile, New Zealand is on a mission to find their identity and regain Southern Hemisphere supremacy.
Argentina Overview
The Pumas enter the match with reinforced confidence, having recalled key players—Marcos Kremer, Juan Cruz Mallía, Santiago Chocobares, Mateo Carreras—many returning from injury or rested in recent series.(Reuters) Their dynamic forward play, combined with a capable backline, makes them dangerous at home, especially backed by a passionate Cordoban crowd.
New Zealand Overview
The All Blacks arrive in Argentina seeking direction. Coach Scott Robertson has leaned on trusted veterans and structural stability amid transitions. Key absences include Sam Cane (injury) and scrum-half Cam Roigard (stress fracture), limiting depth and reshaping the back row.
Form Path Summary
Argentina’s recent performances showcase growth and belief, particularly after challenging Tier 1 sides. New Zealand, while respectable in form, faces scrutiny over consistency and identity.
Key Players to Watch
- Marcos Kremer (Argentina) – His leadership and physicality at breakup and lineout will be crucial.
- Juan Cruz Mallía – A creative spark able to break lines and execute tactical kicks.
- Ardie Savea (New Zealand) – Expected to marshal the forward momentum and energy.
- Damian McKenzie / Beauden Barrett – Their game management and kicking range can tilt control in NZ’s favor.
What to Watch Live
- Breakdown intensity – Argentina will look to slow New Zealand’s ball.
- Set-piece stability – Crucial for field position and possession.
- Mental composure, especially in the final minutes, as noted by Kremer.
Where to Watch
Kick-off at 6:10 PM ART. Streaming options include Sky Sport (NZ), Stan Sport (Australia), and local rights holders in Argentina.
Betting Insight
- Match Odds: Leaning toward New Zealand, but Argentina is competitive at home.
- Handicap: All Blacks –6
- Total Points: Estimate around 52
Expect a tight, will-driven contest with scoring opportunities hard-earned on both sides.
Prediction
Argentina’s resurgence, home advantage, and key returnees present a genuine threat. New Zealand’s experience and strategic discipline will test the hosts, but the Pumas’ passion and physicality could edge them ahead.
Predicted Winner: Argentina
Expected Scoreline: Argentina 28 – New Zealand 24
Tactical X‑Factor: Argentina’s breakdown competition and ability to slow NZ’s rhythm may be the match-winning factor.
