Rugby World Cup: Argentina coach Michael Cheika says opponents Wales are quarter-final favourites
- Published
Warren Gatland was a television pundit when Wales defeated Argentina in Cardiff in November 2022
Argentina head coach Michael Cheika says his side will be underdogs in their World Cup quarter-final against Wales in Marseille next Saturday.
The Pumas defeated Japan 39-27 to set up a last-eight encounter with Warren Gatland's side next weekend.
Cheika believes Wales will be firm favourites to reach the last four.
"We know we are going to be well and truly underdogs and I have heard a lot of commentary that Wales will reach the semi-final for sure," said Cheika.
"We know there are a lot of Argentina fans here who are supporting us to go further so we want to make sure we do everything we can for them."
Wales topped their group with four wins, while Argentina finished runners-up after losing to England in the opening game.
"I watched the game they played against Australia," said Cheika.
"Warren Gatland has a very particular style which he has obviously been able to infuse into his team and they are playing it very well.
"It is one thing knowing, it is another thing doing something about it.
"You can't do much more than win four out of four and they have done that.
"Now that we know that's a definite of playing against Wales we will start preparing tonight when we get back to our base."
Argentina are set to be without influential flanker Pablo Matera, who was carried off in the first half with a hamstring injury.
"It doesn't look good, I'd say," said Cheika.
"By the look of him now, I'd say definitely it (his tournament) would be over. But you know, it's never over until it is, so we'll see what happens."
THIS WEEK IN SPORT: Mike Bubbins reviews the week's biggest sporting stories
SCRUM V RUGBY: In-depth look at Wales' Rugby World Cup journey
