Rugby World Cup 2023 | Match Centre | Japan 27:39 Argentina

Argentina Secures World Cup Quarter-Final Spot with Mateo Carreras Hat-Trick

Mateo Carreras led Argentina to a thrilling victory over Japan, securing a spot in the World Cup quarter-finals against Wales. The Newcastle Falcons wing delivered an extraordinary hat-trick of tries, showcasing his exceptional skills and determination on the field.

The game in Nantes began explosively, with Argentina striking within the first two minutes. Santiago Chocobares broke through Japan’s defense to score his first international try after a driving maul. However, Japan quickly bounced back, with Amato Fakatava executing a remarkable chip-and-score move, leveling the score.

The momentum shifted when Pieter Labuschagne of Japan received a yellow card for a high tackle, giving Argentina an advantage. Marcos Kremer blocked a Rikiya Matsuda drop-goal attempt with his face, setting up a counter-attack that saw Juan Cruz Mallia passing to Carreras for another try.

Japan remained resilient, narrowing the gap to just one point with a try from Naoto Saito. Carreras, with his mesmerizing left-foot step, extended Argentina’s lead once more. However, Japan continued to fight valiantly, exemplified by Lomano Lemeki’s audacious drop-goal.

In a thrilling pool game that felt like a knockout match, both teams displayed an exceptional level of intensity and flair. Argentina sealed their victory when Mallia and Boffelli combined for the latter to score their fourth try.

Carreras would not be denied, securing his hat-trick and Argentina’s place in the quarter-finals. The game marked the end of Japan coach Jamie Joseph’s tenure, during which he led the team to unprecedented achievements, including a knockout place in the 2019 World Cup.

Argentina’s captain, Julian Montoya, praised his team’s resilience, highlighting their fighting spirit as the key to their success in the World Cup.

Match Summary

Pool D |Japan 27:39 Argentina

Japan Scores:

Argentina Scores:

Referee:

Ben O’Keeffe

Man of the Match:

Mateo Carreras (Argentina)

Highlights

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