New Zealand have reset from their thrilling win over Ireland to prepare for Friday’s World Cup semi-final against Argentina, with the pain of losing four years ago at the same stage “a big driver”.
All Blacks scrum-half Aaron Smith said that the feeling of losing to England in the 2019 semi-finals helped the team to reset after the emotional game against Ireland last week.
He said that the team has taken the positives from the Ireland game and is ready for the challenge of Argentina, who have steadily improved as the tournament has advanced.
Argentina coach Michael Cheika said that he is aware of the challenge that New Zealand pose, but is confident that his team is ready. He said that Argentina has a chance to change history on Friday and will be ready for the match.
The two teams have made few changes to their starting XVs from the quarter-finals. New Zealand coach Ian Foster has recalled winger Mark Tele’a to the team, while Argentina coach Michael Cheika has made one change, selecting Gonzalo Bertranou at scrum-half at the expense of Tomas Cubelli.
History is on New Zealand’s side, with the All Blacks having won 33 of 36 encounters between the two sides. However, Argentina have a rich history of overachieving at the World Cup and will be determined to pull off a shock victory on Friday.
New Zealand reset for Argentina semi-final after thrilling win over Ireland
New Zealand have reset from their thrilling win over Ireland to prepare for Friday’s World Cup semi-final against Argentina, with the pain of losing four years ago at the same stage “a big driver”.
Aaron Smith: Argentina game will be “another huge game for us”
All Blacks scrum-half Aaron Smith said that the feeling of losing to England in the 2019 semi-finals helped the team to reset after the emotional game against Ireland last week.
Michael Cheika: Argentina ready for “challenge” of New Zealand in World Cup semi-final
Argentina coach Michael Cheika said that he is aware of the challenge that New Zealand pose, but is confident that his team is ready. He said that Argentina has a chance to change history on Friday and will be ready for the match.
History on New Zealand’s side in World Cup semi-final against Argentina
History is on New Zealand’s side, with the All Blacks having won 33 of 36 encounters between the two sides. However, Argentina have a rich history of overachieving at the World Cup and will be determined to pull off a shock victory on Friday.
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