Ignacio Mendy Returns to the Starting XV Against Familiar Rivals
Wing Ignacio Mendy returns to the starting lineup for Argentina, marking his first appearance against the Springboks since his international debut against them in 2021, according to team announcements reported by El Litoral. Following a three-year absence from the national squad, Mendy earned a recall during Argentina’s historic autumn victory over Ireland in Dublin.
Mendy acknowledged the physical challenge ahead in statements to the press covered by El Litoral. “It’s going to be a rough, very tough match. They come to play direct with us at set pieces. The match won’t be perfect, we are going to make mistakes, and the important thing will be how to get out of those mistakes,” Mendy said.
Despite returning to the international stage, Mendy views his current standing with cautious humility. “I don’t have that many matches either, I have five. I live it as if it were a debut too,” he noted, while offering advice to younger squad members facing their first test against the world champions.
Juan Penoucos Awaits Potential Debut Among Replacements
Twenty-two-year-old Juan Penoucos is named among the replacements and could earn his first official cap for Los Pumas should head coach Felipe Contepomi and his coaching staff call upon him, as reported by El Litoral. Penoucos balances excitement with composure ahead of the fixture.
Formed at Club de Remo de Azul and currently playing for Belgrano Athletic and Pampas in the Súper Rugby Américas and URBA competitions, Penoucos prepares for a significant step up in competition. “I am very happy with the news and the possible debut, but trying to take it easy, not going crazy. At the end of the day, it’s a rugby match,” Penoucos told reporters.
Penoucos emphasized the necessity of maintaining focus despite the caliber of the opposition and the size of the crowd at Vélez. “The match is going to be very tough. They are the back-to-back world champions, they are very strong in set pieces. But we have trained a lot to be able to win it,” Penoucos stated.
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