Contepomi makes key changes as Argentina prepare for Ireland clash

Argentina head coach Felipe Contepomi has announced three changes to the Pumas squad set to face Ireland at Aviva Stadium on Friday, confirming that Connacht winger Santi Cordero is in full health despite missing out on the match-day lineup.

Cordero, who recently returned from a knee injury that disrupted his first season in Galway, is not injured but has been left out for tactical reasons, with Contepomi noting that “he’s in great form” and fully available for future games.

Contepomi explained his squad decisions were driven by strategic considerations rather than injury concerns.

"There are a few changes, but that's because these guys compete really hard...and we always try to field the best 23 that can represent us the best," said Contepomi from Dublin. While Cordero performed well in last week’s 50-point victory over Italy, Contepomi opted for Santi Carreras, who he believes offers versatility off the bench.

With confidence high following a successful Rugby Championship and last week’s dominant display against Italy, Contepomi emphasized the team’s focus on performance over results.

“Results give you confidence, but for us, the progress is about doing what we say we’re going to do," he added, underscoring that the Pumas evaluate their progress based on execution rather than outcomes alone.

In the lineup, Pablo Matera returns from suspension to strengthen the back-row, with Juan Martin Gonzalez shifting from blindside to openside flanker to accommodate the Pumas' vice-captain.

The experienced Guido Petti reclaims his place in the second row, while Matias Moroni is set to start at inside centre, adding depth to the Pumas’ midfield.

These tactical adjustments come as Contepomi aims to maintain momentum, reinforcing Argentina’s focus on improving each match. The inclusion of Matera and Petti provides the Pumas with both leadership and strength in critical areas, while Moroni’s return bolsters their attacking options.

The head coach remains committed to steady progress, explaining that Argentina’s self-assessment goes beyond just wins and losses.

“We have certain things that we look at, regardless of the result...for us, it’s the same, how we evaluate," Contepomi stated, adding that the team's performance is judged on its ability to execute their game plan consistently.

Argentina: 15 Juan Cruz Mallia, 14 Rodrigo Isgro, 13 Lucio Cinti, 12 Matias Moroni, 11 Bautista Delguy, 10 Tomas Albornoz, 9 Gonzalo Bertranou, 8 Joaquin Oviedo, 7 Juan Martin Gonzalez, 6 Pablo Matera, 5 Pedro Rubiolo, 4 Guido Petti, 3 Joel Sclavi, 2 Julián Montoya, 1 Thomas Gallo

Reserves: 16 Ignacio Ruiz, 17 Ignacio Calles, 18 Francisco Gomez Kodela, 19 Franco Molina, 20 Santiago Grondona, 21 Gonzalo Garcia, 22 Santiago Carreras, 23 Justo Piccardo