Rugby Union is roaring back to life in Argentina, defying football's stranglehold on the country's sporting psyche! "Rugby is a sport, football is a religion" - Pumas head coach Felipe Contepomi couldn't be more spot-on. And yet, despite football's iron grip on the nation, Rugby Union is on the march, with amateur participation levels skyrocketing, according to Contepomi himself.
The Pumas are on a roll, consistently punching above their weight on the international stage - three World Cup semi-finals in five tournaments speak for themselves. But what's truly remarkable is the way rugby is seeping into every corner of Argentine society. No longer confined to private schools and Buenos Aires' rugby heartlands, this beautiful game is now being played by all walks of life, in every province. Even Tucuman, where Saturday's venue awaits, has surpassed its football-loving neighbours - talk about a sporting revolution!
The Pumas' impressive international record is all the more astonishing given their amateur status. The Jaguares may have folded due to financial woes, but Super Rugby Americas has emerged as a vital development pathway, churning out pros like Joaquin Moro, who made waves at Leicester Tigers last season.
Argentina's logistical hurdles are well-documented: most of the squad plays on both sides of the equator, limiting training time - just three sessions before their recent loss to Scotland highlights the challenge. But Contepomi remains optimistic, citing "excellence, consistency and resilience" as the qualities driving their Nations Championship push - traits he credits to none other than Lionel Messi!
England, under Steve Borthwick, will be looking to extend their winning streak against the Pumas, currently at five matches. Last summer's tour saw England claim a series victory in Argentina, but this week's fixture promises another fierce battle between two determined sides.