Emerging Ireland vs Pumas Predictions - Pumas can beat young Irish side

For this reason, the Pumas may have the edge as the Irish try to find their feet in the opener.

These two have never met before.

The Emerging Ireland squad is filled with players that the Irish Rugby Union (IRU) believe have potential for international rugby in future. Very few of the players are regulars with their United Rugby Championship clubs.

There are no historical results for Emerging Ireland as it’s a squad that tours on occasion but changes every time they do. They should be very competitive against the Pumas considering the Nelspruit-based outfit also has no international players.

Emerging Ireland have sent a squad of 33 players over to South Africa for this three-match tour. Over the course of those three games, it is certain that all players will get some game time, and most will get at least one start.

The Pumas only recently finished their 2024 Currie Cup campaign so match-fitness should be no issue for them. They did endure a disappointing season, finishing fifth on the table and failing to qualify for the semi-finals.

With just four wins and a draw in 10 matches, the Pumas inconsistency cost them dearly. However, they still achieved some notable results, drawing 44-44 with the eventual champions, the Sharks.

In their last two games of the season, the Pumas suffered defeat to Western Province and the Cheetahs.

The Pumas are likely to test a few new players and some different combinations in this end-of-season tournament.