As England prepare to wrap up their Quilter Nations Series campaign, attention turns to a familiar opponent: Argentina. The Pumas were beaten twice during the summer tour\u201435\u201312 in San Juan and 22\u201317 in La Plata\u2014but this rematch arrives with a very different feel.<\/p>\n
Join RUCK\u2019s Instagram broadcast channel <\/a>and get the latest rugby news straight to your phone.<\/p>\n Argentina have travelled to London with genuine confidence. Their recent 33\u201324 comeback victory over Scotland has injected real belief into Felipe Contepomi\u2019s group, a team that mixes hard-nosed physicality with flashes of creativity. They will need little motivation to chase payback for the summer losses\u2014and to finish their European tour with a statement.<\/p>\n The Pumas edged the last encounter in London by a single point, a reminder that this matchup rarely follows a script. With that backdrop in mind, here\u2019s how England\u2019s lineup could shape up for the challenge ahead.<\/p>\n England team to play Argentina (Predicted)<\/p>\n 15 Marcus Smith<\/p>\n England gained a real spark the moment Marcus Smith entered the field in the first half against New Zealand. His instinct for identifying open space remains unmatched in this squad, and while he can\u2019t offer the same aerial presence as Freddie Steward, he brings a creativity that could be vital against an Argentina side capable of scoring heavily.<\/p>\n 14 Tommy Freeman<\/p>\n Whether or not Tommy Freeman recovers from his hamstring issue will shape England\u2019s choices on the wing. His return date is still unclear, so Tom Roebuck may be asked to step in. Both bring strong aerial skills and dependable all-round wing play, making this a position of genuine depth.<\/p>\n 13 Ollie Lawrence<\/p>\n A powerful early tackle and a confidently taken try underlined why Ollie Lawrence feels immovable from England\u2019s midfield right now. His left-foot step once again proved destructive, and his slick pass to set up Dingwall\u2019s score highlighted his improved distribution.<\/p>\n 12 Fraser Dingwall<\/p>\n The momentum of Fraser Dingwall\u2019s performance last weekend makes dropping him appear unnecessary. He linked smoothly with Smith when the fullback came on, showing a clear understanding in their timing. The one concern was how often the defensive line narrowed too easily\u2014but his well-taken try off Lawrence\u2019s shoulder capped a strong outing.<\/p>\n 11 Immanuel Feyi-Waboso<\/p>\n Youthful intelligence mixed with real physicality ensures that Immanuel Feyi-Waboso remains the obvious starter unless circumstances change drastically. His blend of decision-making and athleticism continues to stand out on the wing.<\/p>\n 10 George Ford<\/p>\n Another calm, composed display from George Ford reminded everyone why he remains England\u2019s tactical heartbeat. Those two drop goals across the halves showcased a razor-sharp rugby IQ. Although Fin Smith may be considered for extra experience, Ford is still the choice if England prioritise winning now.<\/p>\n 9 Alex Mitchell<\/p>\n The constant question of whether Ben Spencer should start over Alex Mitchell continues in the background, yet Steve Borthwick clearly trusts the Saints scrum-half. Mitchell\u2019s speed of service and steady control keep England moving with purpose.<\/p>\n CONTINUES ON PAGE TWO<\/a><\/p>\n Like this:<\/p>\n Like Loading…<\/p>\n