Wales and Argentina kick off this weekend's Rugby World Cup quarterfinals at the Stade Vélodrome on Saturday.
Wales v Argentina
Saturday 14 October
Stade Vélodrome
Wales 5/10 | Draw 18/1 | Argentina 17/10
Handicap
Wales (-4.5) 9/10 | Argentina (+4.5) 9/10
Warren Gatland’s men have quietly gone about their business during the tournament, winning all four of their pool matches to head into this one with some much-needed momentum. Considering the tumultuous period the Welsh game has endured over the past four years, their performances so far in France have been seriously encouraging.
In stark contrast, Los Pumas have failed to live up to their pre-World Cup billing as dark horses. Mike Cheika’s boys slumped to a dismal defeat to 14-man England in round one, before recording relatively unconvincing wins over Samoa and Chile.
They showed improvement in their exciting victory against Japan last week but will need another step up to overcome Wales.
Taulupe Faletau and Pablo Matera are notable absentees from their respective sides with the former’s influence likely to be more keenly missed considering the relative inexperience of this Wales outfit. Still though, Wales’ superior discipline and momentum should see them narrowly clear the handicap on Saturday and secure them a place in a second straight World Cup semi-final.
Verdict: Wales (-4.5) 9/10
