South Africa's Springboks centre Jesse Kriel evades Argentina's Los Pumas defenders during the rugby union Championship match at the Madre de Ciudades stadium in Santiago del Estero, Argentina, on September 21, 2024. Picture: GERONIMO URANGA, AFP
The Springboks will conclude their 2025 Castle Lager Rugby Championship campaign with a highly anticipated clash against Argentina at the Allianz Stadium in Twickenham, London, on Saturday, October 4.
This historic encounter marks the first time these two teams will meet in the tournament on neutral ground.
Los Pumas will become the third team in as many seasons to face the world champions at the iconic stadium, following the Springboks’ dominant performances against New Zealand (35-7) in a Rugby World Cup warm-up match in 2023 and Wales (41-13) in 2024.
Adding further intrigue, this match serves as the tournament's grand finale, with Australia and New Zealand battling it out in Perth earlier the same day. Depending on previous results, the London showdown could determine the 2025 Rugby Championship winner.
South Africa will open their title defence with consecutive home fixtures against Australia on August 16 and 23. They then embark on a challenging tour to New Zealand for back-to-back games against the All Blacks in Auckland and Wellington on September 6 and 13. The Boks return home to host Argentina on September 27 before heading to London for their final showdown against Los Pumas.
The #Springboks and @lospumas are heading to the @allianz_stad in London for their @SanzarTRC clash in October 💂
— Springboks (@Springboks) February 11, 2025
Tickets available on Thursday from @TicketmasterUK 🎟#ForeverGreenForeverGold
Springbok head coach Rassie Erasmus expressed his excitement about playing in London once again:
“It’s always exciting to play in London, and we look forward to facing Argentina in the UK for the first time in the Rugby Championship. We have no doubt this match will be another thrilling spectacle given the intensity of our battles with Los Pumas in recent years.”
Argentina Rugby Union (UAR) President Gabriel Travaglini echoed Erasmus’ sentiments, emphasising the significance of the event:
“For the Argentina Rugby Union, it is an honour to face the Springboks – the current world champions – at the legendary Allianz Stadium. This match is a testament to the growth of our rugby, and it will be a fantastic opportunity to showcase our team on a global stage.”
A Global Stage for the Rugby Championship
SANZAAR Chief Executive Brendan Morris highlighted the importance of expanding the Rugby Championship’s global presence:
“This is an exciting opportunity to bring one of the world’s biggest international rugby tournaments to London. With South Africa as reigning champions and Argentina ranked fifth globally, this match promises to be a thrilling encounter in front of a passionate crowd.”
This marks the second time Argentina will play a Rugby Championship fixture in London, having previously faced Australia at the venue in 2016. Like the 2024 edition, the 2025 match will take place in the final round, potentially shaping the championship’s outcome.
Springboks' 2025 Fixture List
Castle Lager Incoming Series:
5 July: South Africa vs Italy
12 July: South Africa vs Italy
19 July: South Africa vs Georgia
Castle Lager Rugby Championship:
16 August: South Africa vs Australia
23 August: South Africa vs Australia
6 September (Eden Park, Auckland): New Zealand vs South Africa
13 September (Sky Stadium, Wellington): New Zealand vs South Africa
27 September: South Africa vs Argentina
4 October (Allianz Stadium, Twickenham, London): Argentina vs South Africa
With the Rugby Championship set for an exhilarating finish, rugby fans worldwide will be eagerly anticipating this final showdown between two of the most physical and passionate teams in world rugby. Will the Springboks be able to add to their proud record against the Pumas, or will Argentina rise to the occasion in London?
Only time will tell.
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