Imagine stepping onto the field knowing your team collectively holds nearly a THOUSAND international caps – that's the sheer weight of experience Wales faces this Sunday! Argentina's matchday squad boasts a staggering 944 caps for their Quilter Nations Series clash against Wales at the Principality Stadium. This is over 400 more than the Welsh team, a difference that could significantly impact the game. But here's where it gets controversial... does experience always translate to victory?
Julian Montoya, a name familiar to Leicester fans, will lead the Pumas for the 53rd time, marking his 18th consecutive start in the No.2 jersey. A true veteran with 114 caps under his belt, Montoya is one of two centurions in Argentina's formidable pack. Alongside him is Pablo Matera, the most-capped Puma of all time, earning his 119th cap and serving as Montoya's vice-captain. Matera's presence at flanker adds even more steel to an already imposing forward unit.
The front row sees Mayco Vivas, a constant presence alongside Montoya during this year's Rugby Championship, securing another start at loose-head. Pedro Delgado completes the front row at tight-head, ready to anchor the scrum.
Argentina has shaken things up in the second row, giving Marcos Kremer a rare start at lock. Kremer, usually a flanker, is known for his relentless tackling – he made MORE tackles than any other player in The Rugby Championship! His last appearance in the second row was against New Zealand in August 2024, and he's partnered by Guido Petti, creating a dynamic and powerful duo. And this is the part most people miss... Kremer's versatility could be a huge advantage, allowing Argentina to adapt their strategy mid-game.
On the flanks, Juan Martin Gonzalez joins Matera, while Joaquin Oviedo anchors the scrum at No.8. This completes a pack that collectively holds a massive 516 caps, compared to Wales' 227. The difference in experience is undeniable.
Let's take a look at how the two teams have performed against each other recently. In their last five meetings, both Wales and Argentina have secured two wins each, with one draw. The average points scored are closely matched, with Wales averaging 20 points and Argentina 21. Interestingly, the team that scored the first try went on to win 40% of the time, and the home team also won 40% of the time.
While the experience levels are generally similar across both backlines, the Pumas are entrusting the half-back positions to relative rookies: Simon Benitez Cruz and Geronimo Prisciantelli. Between them, they only have four Test starts. This could be a point of vulnerability for Argentina, or a bold move that injects fresh energy into their attack.
The centre partnership of Santiago Chocobares and Justo Piccardo starts together for only the second time, following their debut as a midfield combination against South Africa in the final round of The Rugby Championship last month. Their developing partnership will be crucial in controlling the midfield.
Out wide, Mateo Carreras and Bautista Delguy will provide the attacking threat on the wings, while full-back Santi Carreras celebrates his 50th Test start.
Here's the full Argentina squad facing Wales:
Mayco Vivas
Julian Montoya (capt)
Pedro Delgado
Guido Petti
Marcos Kremer
Pablo Matera (vice-capt)
Juan Martin Gonzalez
Joquin Oviedo
Simon Benitez Cruz
Geronimo Prisciantelli
Mateo Carreras
Santiago Chocobares
Justo Piccardo
Bautista Delguy
Santiago Carreras
Replacements:
Ignacio Ruiz
Thomas Gallo
Tomas Rapetti
Matias Alemanno
Saniato Grondonna
Agustin Moyano
Juan Cruz Mallia (vice-capt)
Rodrigo Isgro
So, what do you think? Will Argentina's overwhelming experience be the deciding factor, or will Wales find a way to overcome the odds? And what about the half-back pairing for Argentina - inspired choice or a gamble that could backfire? Let us know your predictions and thoughts in the comments below!
