New Zealand can expect a tougher test from Argentina in
their World Cup opener on Monday morning (NZT) than in July
when the All Blacks eased to a comfortable victory in
Christchurch, Pumas coach Daniel Hourcade said.
The two favourites to progress from Pool C clash at Wembley
and Hourcade said his side will offer more than they did when
losing 39-18 in their opening Rugby Championship game.
"We only had a short time together, a short time to prepare.
Many [Argentina] players came from Europe and were starting
their season," Hourcade told Reuters at the team's base at
Hanbury Manor hotel in leafy Hertfordshire, to the north of
London.
"This team is in a different moment than in Christchurch."
The All Blacks are favourites to retain the Webb Ellis Trophy
and Hourcade said it made no difference playing them in their
first group game, or at a later date.
"For us it is the same... doesn't matter if it's the first
game or final group game. The All Blacks are always the All
Blacks. They are the best team in the world."
The Pumas have never beaten New Zealand but, his serious face
giving way to a wry smile, Hourcade added: "No surprises...
"They cannot surprise you but they are the best."
Following that Christchurch defeat, Argentina were brushed
aside at home by Australia, but then caused a shock that
reverberated around the rugby world by beating South Africa
in Durban.
Not only had the Pumas beaten the Springboks after 19 failed
attempts but they also won away in the Championship for the
first time since joining the expanded southern hemisphere
tournament in 2012.
"We have shown by beating South Africa and Australia [in
2014] that we are developing and I continue to hope we keep
making history," Hourcade said.
Argentina memorably made the World Cup semifinals in 2007 and
were quarterfinalists four years ago before being beaten by
the All Blacks.
Hourcade said a last eight place was a minimum requirement
this time although his side would not overlook pool rivals
Tonga, Georgia and Namibia.
Argentina skipper Agustin Creevy said the Pumas "had a good
mix of experience and youth".
"It's a perfect combination. We are arriving at the
tournament hungry [to do well]," he said.
"We all have a bond."