Wales are facing Argentina in a crucial match at the Principality Stadium on Sunday. The Pumas, fresh from a challenging Rugby Championship, are looking to capitalise on Wales' current struggles. Argentina defeated Wales in the quarter-finals of the 2023 Rugby World Cup and intend to make life difficult for Steve Tandy, the new Welsh boss.
Welsh Rugby in Crisis?
It's been over two years since Wales last secured a Test win at home. The team is entering a new era as underdogs, with Tandy taking the reins for the first time. He's aiming to build on the success in Japan, which ended a painful 18-Test losing streak that began with that World Cup defeat by Argentina.
However, the Pumas, ranked sixth globally, present a formidable challenge. Under coach Felipe Contepomi, they've earned the right to be confident and are considered a top-level team. Argentina are actually starting as favourites against Wales – a scenario unthinkable just a decade ago.
The Pumas' Recent Form
Argentina managed two wins in the Rugby Championship, defeating New Zealand and Australia. However, they finished bottom of the table after a home series defeat to England. Despite some setbacks, they remain a competitive force.
Welsh Rugby's Deeper Problems
Adding to the on-field pressure, Welsh rugby is facing significant off-field challenges. The WRU is struggling to revitalise the sport, with plans to scrap one of the four regional teams. These teams are overstretched and underfunded, and no Welsh team has finished in the top seven of the URC since before the pandemic. The atmosphere surrounding Welsh rugby is tense, with uncertainty about the future of the sport.
Six thousand supporters attended an open training session at the Principality Stadium, highlighting the public's concern. The announcer had to remind people that tickets were still available for the autumn internationals, including the match against Argentina, indicating a possible decline in ticket sales.
Can Wales overcome both their on-field opponents and off-field turmoil? Sunday's match will be a significant test.