Salta (Argentina) (AFP)
"The Pumas are a fantastic home team," said South Africa captain Duane Vermeulen, on the eve of defying Argentina in trouble in the Rugby Championship at home in Salta to close the tournament. southern hemisphere.
The Springboks, leaders after two days and in position to win their first title in the competition since its inception in 2012, are wary of the Argentines, yet last after their two short defeats against New Zealand (20-16) and the Australia (16-10).
"The Pumas are really good in the lineups and play a very fast rugby," said captain Duane Vermeulen on Friday. The third 33-year-old (47 capes) line also highlighted the ability of the Argentineans to break the mauls, one of the main weapons of the Spingboks.
In Salta, in the North of Argentina, South Africans also know that they will be on hostile ground. "Their supporters give visiting teams the impression of playing 15-15. The Argentine public plays a major role, the Pumas are a fantastic team at home," said Vermeulen.
Some might see the South African captain's statements as a simple exchange of courtesies. But the 26-24 loss of the Springboks here in Salta in 2016 confirms Vermeulen's fears.
The Pumas have even won two of the last three Argentina - South Africa they have played at home Rugby Championship.
In case of defeat, the Springboks would offer the title to Australians or New Zealanders, who face off earlier Saturday in Perth (Australia).
As a reminder, the Rugby Championship is reduced to three days this year because of the World Cup, which will take place from September 20 to November 2 in Japan.
© 2019 AFP