Chile’s rugby squad is facing a major injury crisis ahead of the Rugby World Cup 2027 Qualifiers, losing key players Martín Sigren, Marcelo Torrealba, and Tomás Baguley to ACL injuries. Their absence may severely impact the team’s prospects as they prepare for crucial matches against Brazil and Romania. Domingo Saavedra is also sidelined, while Matías Garafulic is expected to return to action soon.
Chile’s rugby team is coping with a severe injury crisis just as they gear up for the Rugby World Cup 2027 Qualifiers. This past weekend, three players from Selknam—Martín Sigren, Marcelo Torrealba, and Tomás Baguley—sustained significant anterior cruciate ligament tears in their left knees while competing against Los Tarucas in Super Rugby Americas. This unfortunate turn of events could have major implications for Chile’s upcoming matches.
The three players will undergo surgery, and Chile Rugby has not provided a specific return date for their recovery. However, considering the nature of such injuries, it is likely that they will miss the July Internationals, where the team is set to face Romania and participate in the critical World Cup qualifiers. Head coach Pablo Lemoine is preparing a roster to face these challenges.
Los Cóndores will play against Brazil away on July 19 and then host them a week later, on July 26. The aggregate winner will meet either Uruguay or Paraguay to vie for the South American qualification spot for the 2027 World Cup in Australia. This makes the absence of key players even more problematic for the squad.
Martín Sigren, who serves as the test captain, has been a pivotal figure, leading the team during their inaugural Rugby World Cup in France last year. With 38 caps, his experience will be sorely missed. Marcelo Torrealba is another key player, having earned 22 caps, while Tomás Baguley is newer to the team, looking to make an impact after his first exposure in Super Rugby Americas.
In addition to this injury crisis, the team is already missing starting center Domingo Saavedra, who injured his right knee’s cruciate ligament back in March and will not return this season. Fortunately, fellow center Matías Garafulic is expected to regain full fitness in time for the international fixtures, which could provide some relief amidst the ongoing challenges.
As Chile prepares for the Rugby World Cup 2027 Qualifiers, injuries to key players pose a significant threat to their campaign. The losses of Martín Sigren, Marcelo Torrealba, and Tomás Baguley could hinder the team’s performance against Brazil and Romania. While the return of Matías Garafulic may add some hope, the overall situation remains precarious as Los Cóndores look to secure their place in the World Cup.
Original Source: www.americasrugbynews.com
