Ireland vs Argentina – Match Preview
PARIS, FRANCE - SEPTEMBER 23: Mack Hansen of Ireland celebrates victory at full-time following the Rugby World Cup France 2023 match between South Africa and Ireland at Stade de France on September 23, 2023 in Paris, France. (Photo by Franco Arland/Quality Sport Images/Getty Images)
By Peter Ryan
It is another game under the lights at the Aviva Stadium on Friday as Ireland look to get back to winning ways against Argentina.
The autumn series is in full swing as quality players face off in major international clashes. Ireland will look to right the wrongs of last week’s defeat to New Zealand as they welcome the Pumas to Dublin.
Conversely, Argentina will seek to build on a dominant victory against Italy. This is an excellent game to kick off a thrilling weekend of rugby action, with exciting betting options available.
Ireland
Ireland entered the autumn series as the number-one ranked side in the world, aiming to give Andy Farrell a strong send-off before his stint with the British and Irish Lions.
Their opening games did not go according to plan, as the All Blacks visited the Irish capital and secured a scrappy win.
It was not reassuring for the Irish, who would have felt it was their game to lose heading into the contest. They will look to bounce back against Argentina this weekend. Over the last five contests, Ireland have won three, with an average margin of 22 points per game.
Farrell will rely on key players such as Jack Crowley, James Lowe, and Andrew Porter to perform solidly and dominate the South American opposition.
Notably, it will be a big game for Cian Healy, as the prop is set to equal the great Brian O’Driscoll’s record of 133 caps, reflecting his longevity and experience at the game’s top level.
With players like Healy adding to a perfectly blended squad, Ireland boast both expertise and talent, making them well-prepared.
Ireland will aim not only to beat Argentina but to do so in show-stopping fashion.
Argentina
Argentina have been among the more underrated sides in world rugby over recent years, often not receiving the credit they deserve for their rapid improvement.
The South American team had a strong Rugby Championship campaign, beating South Africa, Australia, and New Zealand.
They have taken every step forward in the autumn series, as demonstrated by last weekend’s 50-18 victory over Italy away from home.
As a squad, they possess tremendous scoring ability and elite attacking play. Players such as Julián Montoya, Pablo Matera, and Juan Cruz Mallía will aim to challenge the Irish defence on Friday night.
Argentina bring resilience, toughness, and quality within their squad. Although this will be a very different challenge compared to Italy, Felipe Contepomi should feel confident that his side could pose a serious threat to Ireland.
The Bets
The upcoming match in the Irish capital offers a variety of exciting betting options. The most promising bet is for Ireland to win by more than 11 points.
With a superior squad on paper, Ireland should feel confident about securing a comfortable victory. For those looking for a greater potential return, betting on Ireland to win by more than 17 points could be a worthwhile choice if it materialises.
For those who enjoy high-risk, high-reward bets, wagering on Ireland to win by a margin between one and seven points is an option to consider, given Argentina’s quality and competitive ability against top rugby nations.
Best Bet: Ireland to win by more than 11 points – 10/11
Value Bet: Ireland to win by more than 17 points – 15/8
Longshot Bet: Ireland winning by a margin between one and seven points – 7
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