This is a unique opportunity. That, for the Welsh as for the Argentinians, of reaching a World Cup semi-final while avoiding the four best nations in the world. Before the clash between Ireland and New Zealand on Saturday evening (9:00 p.m.), and while waiting for the unmissable France-South Africa on Sunday (9:00 p.m.), Wales and Argentina will face off to kick off the quarter-final ball.
At the Vélodrome stadium in Marseille, the XV du Poireau will try to reach the last four for the second consecutive time. In 2019, in Japan, the Welsh overcame the Blues (20-19) in their first knockout match. To return to victory this Saturday, the winners of Pool C will be able to count on the return of their fly-half Dan Biggar, who was injured against Australia in the pool. Liam Williams will also be there, while third row Taulupe Faletau is out.
On the Argentinian side, it is vice-captain Pablo Matera who will give way to Facundo Isa in the third row. In the fray, we will also find the experienced Tomas Cubelli, 34 years old, preferred to Gonzalo Bertranou for this clash. It was the 29-year-old number 9 who started in the Pumas’ last match, a real round of 16 victory against Japan (39-26), to clinch second place in Group D.
The Wales-Argentina kick-off will be given at 5 p.m. this Saturday, October 14, and the match will be broadcast on France 2. You will also be able to follow the match live with commentary on our website leparisien.fr
