Dublin: Santiago Carreras is gearing up for a pivotal match that has been two decades in the making. For Argentina, a team not included in the British and Irish Lions’ regular touring rotation, Friday’s fixture in Dublin is of immense significance.
According to BBC, Argentina’s current squad stands fifth in the world rankings and has demonstrated their prowess by defeating three of the four teams ranked above them within the past year. Although Ireland, the top-ranked team, managed to avoid defeat against Argentina, they were pushed to their limits in a recent encounter at Dublin’s Aviva Stadium last November. Meanwhile, the Lions are still in the process of assembling their squad, with several players, notably a 12-member contingent from Leinster, having just participated in last weekend’s domestic finals.
Santiago Carreras is optimistic about Argentina’s potential under the leadership of Felipe Contepomi, who took over as head coach following a successful run to the 2023 Rugby World Cup semi-finals. Carreras highlighted the team’s evolving mindset and culture, stating, “We are still building our game and our culture. The mindset of the group internally is really competitive – that is the best thing.”
Eleven members of Argentina’s 32-strong squad, including Carreras, have honed their skills in England’s Premiership this season. Among them, captain Julian Montoya is set to join Pau this summer after five seasons with Leicester. Other notable players include Juan Martin Gonzalez and Lucio Cinti at Saracens, Rodrigo Isgro at Harlequins, and the Grondona brothers at Bristol.
Reflecting on his experiences, Carreras emphasized the importance of camaraderie among the players abroad, describing them as a “second family.” He also shared his thoughts on his upcoming move from Gloucester to Bath, expressing mixed emotions about leaving a place where he felt welcome but looking forward to new challenges.
Carreras has fond memories of Argentina’s victory over England last November, marking their second win at the home of English rugby. This summer, the Pumas aim to secure their first series win over England during a two-Test tour, with England’s team missing their British and Irish Lions stars.
Argentina continues to make England a home base for their training camps and will play a significant match against world champions South Africa at the Allianz Stadium on October 4. As Carreras notes, the Pumas are eager for big games and potential upsets, setting their sights on an ambitious 2025.