Japan vs Argentina Predictions - Brave Blossoms to threaten Los Pumas progression

Los Pumas are favourites but both teams have struggled in this World Cup, particularly in attack. If that trend continues this should be a reasonably low-scoring fixture. I can’t see Argentina winning this by more than 13 points with so much on the line for Japan.

Argentina have won five of their six matches against Japan. These sides last met in 2016 where Los Pumas won 54-21 at home.

Japan are third in Pool D, level on points with Argentina but with a worse points difference. The equation is simple, the winner of this match progresses to the quarters.

The Brave Blossoms won their opening game against Chile before losing out to England. Japan were competitive against the English but ran out of steam in the final 20 minutes.

Last time out Japan beat Samoa 19-10 to give themselves a shot at the quarter-final. Japan have been far from their best at this World Cup and if anything, have looked plucky, not their confident selves from four years ago on home soil.

Japan have selected their strongest side for what is effectively a knockout game.

Argentina are obvious favourites for this encounter, but they too have been far from their best at the World Cup. Los Pumas have struggled, particularly on attack and will need to sort that out if they are to beat Japan.

The Argentines started their campaign poorly, lost 27-10 to England. It was a match that the Argentines entered as favourites but arguably put in their worst performance for some time.

They did bounce back with victories over Samoa and Chile which puts them in a strong position to qualify. But they must win this encounter, defeat will mean an early flight home.

No chances are being taken by Michael Cheika. The former Australian head coach will go with the strongest possible side.