Pumas wait on Hernandez fitness

South Africa v Argentina
Sunday, 14 August
Stade de France, Paris
Kick-off: 2000 BST

Argentina have concerns over Juan Martin Hernandez, Felipe Contepomi and Agustin Pichot ahead of Sunday's World Cup semi-final against South Africa.

Hernandez is nursing a knock to his leg, while captain Pichot is struggling with a back problem.

Contepomi has suffered a recurrence of the flu which affected him before the quarter-final win over Scotland, while Ignacio Corleto has a knee problem.

Nevertheless, the Pumas are confident that all four will be fit in time.

"I've no doubt that come the match they'll be fine. They will give their all during the match," said prop Omar Hassan.

"If the legs don't work, it will be the heart that takes over."

Hernandez, Contepomi, Pichot and Corleto all sat out contact training on Thursday to avoid aggravating their problems.

Coach Marcelo Loffreda is set to name his side for Sunday's meeting with the Springboks on Friday, with the Pumas looking to beat South Africa for the first time in their history.

Argentina have already enjoyed their most successful World Cup ever, but will go into the match at the Stade de France as underdogs.

"What no one should under-estimate is the collective will of the Argentina players," said Pumas director of rugby and former England fly-half Les Cusworth.

"They have a real pride in playing for their country. I have been involved in rugby for 40 years and I have never seen anything like it.

"We also have a base of players that other countries would die for. We go into the semi-final with a side that has been developed over the last six or seven years and that gives us every chance. The players are warriors."

Source: BBC Sport