SAINT ETIENNE: Argentina are ready for the “battle of South America” against Chile after getting off the mark in the World Cup by beating Samoa on Friday.
Right wing Emiliano Boffelli starred for Argentina, scoring their only try and contributing 16 points in the 19-10 success against the Pacific Islanders.
It was a crucial victory after the Pumas lost their Pool D opener 27-10 to England two weeks ago.
Next up will be Chile in the first ever Rugby World Cup clash between two South American nations.
“The next game is very important for many reasons because we know Chile will give everything to attack us,” said head coach Michael Cheika.
“It’s logical, it’s the battle of South America and we have to be ready.
“That’s good for us because every World Cup match is a war, we have to be ready for all of them.”
Cheika said the Pumas had made progress since the listless defeat to 14-man England, but he expects more to come.
“The defensive foundations were there, the maul was much better than the previous match,” he said.
“The basics were there, territorial (occupation) was there, but we need to be more clinical in moments.
“But a lot of respect to the players, this was a die-or-survive match and I was happy to always be in the game.”
After Chile, Argentina will play Japan in what may be the decisive match to see who progress to the quarter-finals.
