Argentina faces South Africa in Buenos Aires rugby test

Argentina will host the four‑time world champions South Africa on 8 August at Estadio José Amalfitani in Buenos Aires. Head coach Felipe Contepomi has overhauled the side, making 13 changes and handing a starting debut to tight‑head prop Francisco Moreno, who becomes Puma #909. Leonel Oviedo, Juan Penoucos and Juan Martín Scelzo are on the bench and could also earn their first caps. Captain Pablo Matera leads a back‑line that includes Santiago Carreras at fly‑half and Gerónimo Prisciantelli at full‑back. The match marks the 40th anniversary of Los Pumas playing at the venue, a ground where they have recorded 15 wins, one draw and 24 losses in 40 Tests. South Africa arrive after an unbeaten Nations Championship, with Rassie Erasmus noting the challenge despite Argentina’s recent poor form. The Springboks will field a mixed side that includes captain Siya Kolisi, lock Tomás Lavanini’s return, and veterans Eben Etzebeth and Lood de Jager. Rankings implications are modest, but a win for Argentina could lift them to sixth in the World Rugby top‑15.