By Charles Muchoki | Africa Guardian
As the Rugby Championship heads into its final round, both South Africa and Argentina remain contenders for the title. The two teams will face off again in Mbombela, with the championship on the line.
Argentina’s impressive victory over the Springboks in Santiago del Estero has kept their title hopes alive. Felipe Contepomi’s team has had a strong campaign, defeating all three of their tournament opponents. However, to claim their first-ever Rugby Championship title, Argentina will need to deliver another surprise win against South Africa.
The Springboks enter the final round in a strong position, five points ahead at the top of the table. They need only a single bonus point from their home match to secure their second championship title since Argentina joined the competition. A bonus point can be earned by either scoring three more tries than the opponent or losing by seven points or fewer.
For Argentina to win the title, they must not only defeat South Africa but also do so with a try bonus point while preventing the Springboks from earning a losing bonus point. If the Pumas can manage this, the championship will be theirs, regardless of the points difference between the two teams.
In the event of a tie in competition points, the team with the better head-to-head record takes the title. Since Argentina would have beaten South Africa twice in this scenario, they would finish atop the standings.
Meanwhile, New Zealand’s bonus-point win over Australia in Wellington lifted the All Blacks above Argentina in the table, though neither side is still in contention for the title.
RUGBY CHAMPIONSHIP TABLE AFTER FIVE ROUNDS
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