Los Pumas return to the Aviva Stadium in the Nations Championship, marking a key staging post for Ireland ahead of a potential 2027 World Cup quarter-final meeting. Out of 20 previous meetings, Ireland have won 14, but Argentina's three World Cup victories have defined this rivalry, often ending Ireland's tournament hopes. With the World Cup just under 11 months away, the fixture sharpens the mind, especially given the potential quarter-final clash on Halloween night in Brisbane.
Ireland head coach Andy Farrell acknowledged his side are not presently 'good enough to board the plane believing that 100%' they are ready to lift the Webb Ellis trophy. Across the past two years, Ireland's only six defeats have come against the elite, all via double-digit scores. Without Caelan Doris and Jack Conan through injury, the performance of Sean Jansen and Ryan Baird against an abrasive Argentina back row will have a big impact.
With Jack Crowley injured, Sam Prendergast has another opportunity to grab the 10 jersey, looking to lay down a real marker this month. Farrell has also put his faith in two regular bench options from the start. Arguably Ireland's most important player during this World Cup cycle, Jamison Gibson-Park missed the start of the season with a groin injury but was player of the match in his return.
He will start this window on the bench with Craig Casey getting the nod. The 27-year-old will win his 31st cap on Friday but will be making just a second start against a side currently in the top eight of the world rankings.
Source: BBC Sport · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing