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A win in Tokyo and Argentina will rise to 7th or higher in the World Rankings. Regardless of the scoreline a win of any kind will be sufficient for Argentina to overtake both France and Scotland.
Argentina head into the World Rankings in 9th position. It is a lower ranking than has been the tendency throughout the year. Indeed twelve months ago Argentina finished fourth in the World Cup. Since then Los Pumas have suffered in ranking position due to having lost against France, South Africa, New Zealand and Australia.
The rugby played from the South Americans indicates that the ranking is not accurate. In facing higher ranked opposition throughout the Rugby Championship Argentina suffered as a result. This will change on Saturday with a win over the Japanese.
On current rankings Argentina has 80.31 points, slightly less than both France and Scotland. With 80.75 and 80.44 points respectively they, like Argentina, require wins this month to avoid being ranked 9th. The prospect of playing in the prospective Pool of Death has Argentina concerned.
After facing Japan Los Pumas will travel to the U.K. First up will be a match against Wales in Cardiff. Presently ranked 5th in the world Wales need to win to avoid falling. A loss against Australia by 15 or less will see Wales fall to 81.47 points. A Pumas win in Tokyo by 15+ will give them a ranking of 81.46 points.
Should Australia deliver a fine performance and win by 15+ Wales will fall to 80.97 points. Under this scenario Argentina would rise to 6th, one place ahead of Wales. An Irish loss will see Ireland retaining 5th position irrespective of the margin against New Zealand.
