Pumas 7’s Target World Title in Thrilling Tournament

The final tournament of the season has ignited with the Pumas 7’s fiercely competing for the coveted world title. Their journey to the semifinals was marked by impressive victories against formidable opponents, showcasing their determination and skill. After a fierce series of matches, the Pumas 7’s secured their spot in the semifinals with two wins and one loss. They triumphed over Great Britain with a score of 33-26 and edged out France 17-12. However, they faced a setback against South Africa, losing 21-29. The team, coached by Santiago Gómez Cora, now faces Spain in the semifinals, scheduled for 17:24 local time.

Yaguaretés Battle for a Spot in the New Division 2

Meanwhile,the Yaguaretés are striving to secure a top-four finish in the play-off,which would grant them access to the newly established division 2,set to premiere in 2026. The stakes are high as they navigate through intense competition. The Yaguaretés, under the guidance of Nahuel García, faced an initial setback, falling to China with a score of 25-0. Though, they demonstrated resilience and bounced back with a crucial victory against Ireland, winning 20-12.Their final group stage match against South Africa is scheduled for 2:00 p.m.

Understanding the Play-Off Structure

The play-off structure is designed to promote competitive balance and possibility. The top team in the group automatically qualifies for Division 2. The second and third-placed teams will then compete in a final match to determine the remaining spot in the new division. Teams finishing at the bottom of each group will need to participate in regional tournaments to earn a place at the Challenger Series.

Yaguaretés’ Initial Challenge Against China

The Yaguaretés commenced their campaign in Los Angeles against China, a team that previously held the tenth position in the world circuit. China dominated the match, displaying strength in both attack and defense. The Yaguaretés struggled to gain possession and were unable to effectively execute their game plan, resulting in a 25-0 defeat (15-0 at halftime).

The Yaguaretés’ lineup against China included Blue Medina, Antonella Reding, María Taladrid, Virginia Brígido, Paula Pedrozo (Captain), Sofía González, and escalante Cristal. Later substitutions saw Andrea Moreno, Talía Rodich, Milagros Lecuona, Candela Delgado, and Malena Díaz enter the game.

Triumph Over Ireland Keeps Division 2 Hopes Alive

In their second match in Los Angeles,the yaguaretés faced Ireland,who had previously lost to South Africa 7-12. The Argentine team displayed a significant advancement, taking the initiative from the start. Talía Rodich showcased her attacking prowess with two tries, and Escalante Cristal added another, giving the Yaguaretés a 15-0 lead at halftime. Virginia Brígido extended the lead to 20-0 in the second half, but Ireland responded with two late tries. Ultimately, the Yaguaretés secured a crucial 20-12 victory, keeping their hopes of qualifying for the Play Off alive.

The Yaguaretés’ lineup against Ireland featured Malena Díaz, Cristal Escalante, María Taladrid, Virginia Brígido, paula Pedrozo (Captain), Sofía González, and Talía Rodich.Andrea Moreno, Blue Medina, Antonella Reding, and Candela Delgado were later substituted into the game. the tries were scored by Talía Rodich (2),Escalante,and Virginia Brígido.

Pumas 7’s Overcome Great Britain in Thrilling Encounter

The Pumas 7’s began their tournament against Great Britain, a team they last encountered in the Singapore group phase, where they secured a 19-12 victory. great Britain initially took the lead, but the Argentine team responded with four consecutive tries, leading 28-5 at halftime. Despite a late surge from the British, who scored three tries in the final minutes, the Pumas 7’s held on for a 33-26 victory. A notable highlight of the match was the return of Lautaro Bazán Vélez, who rejoined the team after a three-year absence, his last tournament being Vancouver 2022, where the Pumas 7’s won gold.

The Pumas 7’s lineup against Great Britain included Matteo Graziano, Santiago Álvarez, Matías Osadczuk, Joaquín pellandini, Santiago Mare, Gastón Revol (Captain), and germán Schulz.

Triumphant Victory Over France Secures Semifinal Berth

The Pumas 7s demonstrated their resilience and tactical acumen in a crucial match against france, a team they recently defeated 12-7 in the Hong Kong Sevens final. Despite an initial setback where France took an early lead, Argentina swiftly responded with tries from Álvarez and González, shifting the momentum in their favor. González further extended Argentina’s lead, ultimately securing a 17-12 victory and a coveted spot in the semifinals.

The victory against France underscores Argentina’s growing dominance in the sevens circuit. According to world Rugby statistics,Argentina has consistently ranked among the top teams in recent tournaments,demonstrating their commitment to excellence and strategic gameplay.

the starting lineup against France included Germán Schulz, Santiago Álvarez, Matías Osadczuk, Joaquín Pellandini, Santiago Mare (Captain), Luciano González, and Marcos Moneta. Substitutions were made strategically throughout the match, with Tobias Wade, Matteo Graziano, Agustín fraga, Santino Zangara, and Lautaro Bazán Vélez contributing to the team’s success. Álvarez scored one try, and Luciano González scored twice, with Joaquín Pellandini adding a conversion.

Injuries Cloud Victory: Mare and Moneta Sidelined

Despite the elation of victory, the match against France was marred by injuries to key players. Captain Santiago mare sustained a blow to his right knee, and Marcos Moneta suffered a blow to his right eye. Both players were subsequently ruled out of the match against South Africa as a precautionary measure.

The loss of Mare and Moneta presents a significant challenge for the Pumas 7s as they navigate the semifinals. Their leadership and skill on the field will be sorely missed, requiring other players to step up and fill the void.

South Africa Clash Exposes Vulnerabilities

In their final group match,the Pumas 7s faced a formidable South African team. Both squads had already secured their places in the semifinals, but the match served as a crucial test of strength and strategy. The first half was a tightly contested affair, ending in a 14-14 draw. However,South Africa dominated the second half,scoring three tries to secure a 29-21 victory.

Santino Zangara scored a late try for Argentina, but it was not enough to overcome South Africa’s dominant performance. The loss highlighted areas where the Pumas 7s need to improve, particularly in their defensive strategies and ability to maintain possession under pressure.

The Pumas 7s started the match against South Africa with Matteo Graziano, Germán Schulz, Santiano Zangara, Lautaro Bazán Vélez, Santiago Vera Feld, Luciano González, and Agustín Fraga. Substitutions included Tobías Wade,Matías Osadczuk,santiago Álvarez,and Joaquín Pellandini. Matteo Graziano, Germán Schulz, and Santino Zangara scored the tries, while Santiago Vera Feld contributed three conversions.

Looking Ahead: Semifinal Challenge

Despite the setback against South Africa, the Pumas 7s remain focused on their ultimate goal: securing a medal. as they prepare for the semifinals, they will need to address the vulnerabilities exposed in their recent match and capitalize on their strengths.

the team’s resilience, tactical flexibility, and unwavering determination will be crucial as they face their next opponent. With the support of their fans and a renewed sense of purpose, the pumas 7s are poised to make a strong push for victory.

We are disappointed with the loss against South Africa, but we will learn from our mistakes and come back stronger in the semifinals.

– A statement from the Pumas 7s coaching staff