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Tonga and Argentina clash in a match that could impact the eventual second place in Pool C when they meet in Leicester. Join The Roar for live scores and coverage from 12:30am (AEST) for live scores and coverage.
Argentina are coming off the back of an impressive thrashing of Georgia after a tight first-round loss to New Zealand, while Tonga also bounced back from a first-round defeat to beat Namibia 35-21 on Wednesday.
Currently Tonga sit in second place in Pool C, yet Argentina threaten to overtake them. After smashing the Georgian side 54-9, Argentina will be quietly confident in taking on the Tongans, who themselves lost to Georgia in Round 1 10-17.
Argentina face Namibia after today’s clash, while Tonga come up against World Champions New Zealand in what will be a tough match for the islanders. Consequently, this could be Tonga’s last chance to make a real statement at this World Cup, while it should prove to be the Puma’s last opportunity to face stern resistance before the knockout stages – assuming they make it.
The Tongans will be confident in their ability to take down top-tier nations, cementing their status as giant-killers with a stunning victory over France during the 2011 World Cup. Their display against Namibia, although patchy, should have injected a little more confidence into the team after their upset loss to Georgia the week before. They must win today to retain any hope of making the knockout stages.
Argentina are the serial over-achievers of World Rugby, as displayed by their bronze medal in the 2007 World Cup, and their upset victories over Australia and South Africa in recent years. Driven on by their colossal scrum, the Argentinians will look to repeat their heroics at this year’s edition, starting with strong displays in the pool stages.
Argentina will be missing star centre Juan Martin Hernandez after he tore his hamstring against Georgia, while Gloucester lock Mariano Galarza will miss the remainder of the tournament following a nine-week ban for eye-gouging.
Tonga’s clash with Namibia brought with it four injury clouds; Winger Vainikolo, number eight Kalamafoni, co-captain Piutau and lock T-Pole are all facing tough challenges to front up against Argentina.
Prediction:
Argentina showed through their thrashing of Georgia, who defeated Tonga the week before, that they are a class above the two sides, and should be too strong today. Tonga will bring physicality and passion to the game.
Can Argentina keep their World Cup campaign on track, or will Tonga produce another signature upset? Join The Roar this morning at 12:30 am (AEDT) for live score updates and debate in our live blog.
Join The Roar rugby editor Christy Doran, former Wallaby Matt Toomua and a cast of regular and special guests as they look at the biggest issues in the game on The Roar Rugby Podcast. If you’re looking for great odds on the next game check out Aussie bookmaker PlayUp. Chances are you’re about to lose. Set a deposit limit.