Rugby World Cup
Argentina's World Cup final dream 'died' amid missed chances
Robert Bartlett
October 26, 2015
Hourcade: Pumas won't change style
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TWICKENHAM -- Argentina fly-half Nicolas Sanchez admitted the Pumas were made to rue missed chances as their dream of making a first World Cup final "died" in Sunday's semifinal defeat to Australia.

Michael Cheika's side earned a 29-15 victory at Twickenham to set up a final with defending champions New Zealand next Saturday. Argentina, meanwhile, will have to beat South Africa in Friday's bronze medal match to equal their 2007 tournament-best third place finish.

Julian Montoya and Facundo Isa
Julian Montoya and Facundo Isa© EPA/FACUNDO ARRIZABALAGA

Sanchez, who kicked all of Argentina's 15 points against the Wallabies, gifted Australia their first try when his pass was intercepted by Rob Simmons in the opening minute.

"Australia came out playing at a blistering speed and, honestly, the first try caught us off-guard. It made it all the harder for us after getting behind right from the start," Sanchez said after his side's defeat.

What next for Argentinian rugby?
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"We weren't sharp, we weren't tight in defence and they put a lot of pressure on us. They kicked long and pressed well. As the game went on, we managed to find some spaces and, despite some sloppiness, we were able to play our game.

"Today our dream died. We came here to play the final, but I think we gave it our all. The biggest challenge now is to finish on a high note and get the third place. We've got a mentally very tough game ahead. This week probably won't be as pleasant as this past one, but we'll make a great effort to get the bronze medal."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.

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