Argentina's Los Pumas Sevens: The Dark Horses of Singapore 2026

Argentina's Los Pumas Sevens: The Dark Horses of Singapore 2026

Argentina's sevens program continues to rise, and the South American nation is targeting a breakthrough performance at Singapore Sevens.

While much attention focuses on traditional powerhouses, Argentina's Los Pumas Sevens have been quietly building a program capable of challenging anyone – and Singapore 2026 could be their breakthrough moment.


Rising Through the Ranks


Argentina has been steadily climbing the SVNS standings:

2023: 7th place overall
2024: 5th place overall
2025: Currently 4th with three podium finishes

"We're no longer just participants; we're genuine contenders," said head coach Santiago Gómez Cora. "The players believe they can beat anyone, and that confidence is everything."


Star Players


Marcos Moneta

The electric winger is one of the fastest players in world rugby:

  • **62 tries** in the last two seasons
  • Olympic medal winner
  • Known for spectacular long-range efforts
  • Devastating counterattacker

  • Luciano González Rizzoni

    The captain and playmaker orchestrates Argentina's attack:

  • Exceptional vision and passing range
  • Strong defensive organizer
  • Calm under pressure
  • Over 70 tournaments of experience

  • Rodrigo Isgró

    Powerful ball carrier who breaks tackle after tackle:

  • Physical presence in contact
  • Quick acceleration
  • Reliable finisher
  • Strong aerial skills

  • Playing Style


    Attack

    Argentina plays an expansive, attractive style:

  • Quick ball movement through multiple phases
  • Willingness to attack from anywhere
  • Excellent support play
  • Creative offloading game

  • Defense

    Physical and organized:

  • Strong line speed
  • Effective breakdown work
  • Disciplined structure
  • Aggressive counterrucking

  • Recent Form


    Los Pumas have been impressive:

    Gold Coast: Winners, defeating Fiji in final
    Vancouver: Runners-up
    Los Angeles: Third place
    Madrid: Quarter-finals

    "The results speak for themselves," noted González Rizzoni. "We're consistently performing at the highest level and getting more comfortable in pressure situations."


    Singapore Connection


    Argentina has fond memories of Singapore:

    2019: Historic quarter-final victory over New Zealand
    2022: Bronze medal match appearance
    2025: Narrowly missed semifinals

    The team thrives in Singapore's humid conditions, which suit their fitness-based approach.


    Development Program


    Argentina's success stems from a robust development system:

  • Strong domestic sevens circuit
  • Investment in coaching and facilities
  • Athlete pathway from youth to senior level
  • Sports science and conditioning focus

  • Tactical Evolution


    Set Piece Excellence

    Argentina has become exceptional at restarts:

  • Innovative kickoff strategies
  • High success rate at winning opposition kickoffs
  • Using possession to control territory and tempo

  • Transition Game

    Lightning-fast transitions from defense to attack:

  • Moneta and Isgró excel in broken play
  • Support runners always available
  • Quick decision-making

  • Final-Quarter Strength

    Superior conditioning often tells late in matches:

  • Strong closing record in tight games
  • Mental toughness
  • Depth in the squad

  • Pool Draw Strategy


    Regardless of their pool, Argentina backs themselves:

    "We don't fear anyone," said Gómez Cora. "Whether we face Fiji, New Zealand, or South Africa, we'll bring our game and look to impose ourselves."


    Fan Support


    Argentine fans are renowned for their passion:

  • Large traveling contingent expected
  • Famous for creating atmosphere
  • Unwavering support through good and bad
  • Colorful flags and chants

  • Keys to Success in Singapore


    1. **Stay disciplined**: Avoid giving away easy penalties

    2. **Start fast**: Establish momentum early in matches

    3. **Execute set pieces**: Capitalize on possession opportunities

    4. **Maintain fitness**: Use superior conditioning as an advantage

    5. **Stay composed**: Handle pressure moments with confidence


    Medal Ambitions


    "We're going to Singapore with medal ambitions," declared Moneta. "We've proven we can compete with the best. Now it's about putting together a perfect weekend when it matters most."


    Preparation Camp


    The squad will train in Buenos Aires:

  • High-altitude sessions for conditioning
  • Match simulation against club teams
  • Video analysis of opponents
  • Mental preparation with sports psychologists

  • Impact on Argentine Rugby


    Success in sevens has energized Argentine rugby:

  • Increased media coverage
  • Growing youth participation
  • Corporate sponsorship interest
  • Public recognition of players

  • Don't sleep on Los Pumas in Singapore – they're ready to make history. Check the latest standings and match schedule to follow Argentina's campaign. Get your tickets to witness this exciting team in action!