Australia are set to play the First Test of their two-Test tour of Argentina, with the two nations contesting the Puma Trophy. Argentina are the current holders, having won it in 2023, but a lot has changed since then.

The First Test will be played on Sunday, August 30, with kick-off in Jujuy scheduled for 05:00 AEST.

Quick Picks

Our pick: Argentina to win

Value bet: Australia handicap

Long shot: 2nd Half to be the Highest Scoring Half

Betting Preview

Les Kiss has enjoyed a perfect start (results) in the new era at the Wallabies, having won his two matches in charge against Japan. He has built a solid platform from which to build, having decimated Japan 56-17 in Townsville after a shaky 35-32 victory in Osaka.

A reason for the improved home victory was likely the coach’s demands that his team play more aggressively in attack, following a raft of changes beforehand. They managed to score eight tries, with six coming from their forwards. That is definitely something Argentina are going to have to be wary of.

Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii missed the game in Townsville, but could come back into the squad in the First Test. Kiss has already confirmed that the initial plan to deploy the versatile back at outside centre remains the preferred option, amid speculation that he could be repositioned outside the midfield, given his experience as a winger and fullback.

Australia are close to a strong available side, especially in the front row, back row and outside backs. The front row is powerful with Angus Bell, Taniela Tupou and Allan Alaalatoa available; Rob Valetini, Harry Wilson, Fraser McReight and Carlo Tizzano provide carrying, work rate and breakdown threat from the back row, while Len Ikitau has returned from an ankle injury in the middle.

But Argentina are not going to be easy. Currently ranked 7th in the world rankings, they are physical enough to squeeze opponents, but most dangerous when they can turn pressure into a fast, broken-field contest.

Their squad includes Santiago Carreras, Rodrigo Isgró, Lucio Cinti and Ignacio Mendy, giving them aerial ability, counterattack pace and multiple kicking/handling options in the wider channels. Leadership will come from the experienced Pablo Matera, Guido Petti and Tomás Lavanini. If the positional roles and breakdown battle are new to you, our Rugby Union rules for beginners explainer is a handy starting point.

Betting Markets to Watch

Argentina are the favourites in the international rugby odds, leading the moneyline. Los Pumas are unbeaten at Jujuy’s Estadio 23 de Agosto, where they return for the first time since 2022. It is a testing northern venue for a touring side, with the Wallabies themselves openly preparing for the altitude and atmosphere.

Value could be worth exploring in the handicap market if you like the Kiss regime. The Wallabies are slightly favoured to cover the line (+3.5), and a tight game could be in the offering following what they achieved against Japan.

If you are weighing up the moneyline against the line, our guide on how to bet on the Rugby Championship breaks down these market types.

Our Prediction

Check the latest Argentina vs Australia betting odds at Sportsbet. We think the most likely outcome is an Argentina win.

Our long shot is for the 2nd Half to be the Highest Scoring Half . Both teams often start fast, but with spaces opening up in the second half and altitude potentially making life difficult for the Wallabies, there could be a late flurry of tries and scoring in this game.