Argentina’s head coach Felipe Contepomi has identified Fiji as a key hurdle in the Pumas’ Pool for the Rugby World Cup 2027, emphasizing that preparation and performance on the day take precedence over knockout stage calculations. Both Argentina and Fiji find themselves in the same pool for the expanded 24-team tournament in Australia, alongside Spain and Canada, setting the stage for a thrilling matchup between two teams known for their robust physicality and offensive flair.
Although discussions around the new round-of-16 format have led to various scenarios regarding potential knockout pathways, Contepomi suggested that attempting to predict quarterfinal opponents is less critical. “Logic often doesn’t prevail in World Cups, so that doesn’t worry me too much,” he remarked in response to questions about the layout of the draw. He pointed out that the groups and brackets, which are beyond a team’s control, should not dictate their strategies.
Contepomi acknowledged the inherent threat posed by Fiji, regardless of the tournament scenario. He firmly dismissed any notion that Argentina might consider manipulating their performance to avoid tougher matchups later on. “Now that you know for sure what this group and bracket look like, you can plan, schedule, study, and then be your best version at the World Cup,” he noted, highlighting the importance of focusing on the immediate challenges at hand.
The experienced coach also critiqued the idea of playing strategically against Fiji to influence Argentina’s playoff path. “If we want to go somewhere else in the draw, what, finish second and lose against Fiji? I don’t think so,” he stated emphatically.
With almost two years to go before the competition, both Argentina and Fiji are set to utilize upcoming international windows to enhance their team depth and synergy, as their pool match is anticipated to have significant implications in what could be one of the most unpredictable World Cups to date. This period of preparation presents an opportunity for both teams to showcase their skills and potentially elevate their standings in the international rugby arena.
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