France will be looking to collect their third win on their tour of South America, and their second over Argentina when the sides lock horns in the second Test at the Estadio José Amalfitani on Saturday.
Argentina v France
Saturday 13 July – 21:00
Estadio Jose Amalfitani
Argentina will look for a significantly improved performance when they face off against a French outfit that has been rocked by multiple scandals on their tour of South America. Shaun Goosen previews.
Argentina 57/100 | Draw 22/1 | France 15/10
Handicap
Argentina (-3.5) 9/10 | France (+3.5) 9/10
A third-string France outfit claimed a 43-28 win over Uruguay in Montevideo on Wednesday amid the controversy surrounding two French youngsters currently embroiled in a sexual assault allegation on tour. In spite of that sideshow, Fabien Galthié looks to be continuing to build good squad depth in this World Cup cycle as he prepares for the challenge of Australia 2027.
Although main attractions Antoine Dupont, Romain Ntamack, Greg Alldritt and company are missing from the squad, the likes of Baptiste Serin, Melvyn Jaminet and Sébastien Taofifénua bring plenty of experience to the side and will be key as the Europeans seek a 2-0 series victory in Buenos Aires.
Many had backed Los Pumas heading into the first Test, but the 13-28 result underlines just how much work Felipe Contepomi has on his hands in making the Argentines a consistently competitive force in the global game.
The hosts are likely to produce a much-improved shift this time around as Contepomi’s players become increasingly used to the way he wants to play. Still, the fact they’ve been priced as such comprehensive favourites does come as something of a surprise.
Verdict: France 15/10
After what happened in the first Test, France at 15/10 is too good to pass up.
