The USA Men's Eagles continue their journey toward RWC 2023 with a two-leg faceoff against Uruguay. The winner will qualify as Americas 1, earning a spot in Pool A along with hosts France, World #1 New Zealand, Italy, and Africa 1. While meeting two of the favorites to win the tournament might not sound like much of a reward, the Eagles will be licking their beaks at the prospect of a winnable game vs Africa 1, and a shot at knocking off shaky Tier 1 Italy. A 2-2 finish would not be out of the question, and would represent a high water mark for the US at the RWC. 

Having negotiated a tricky second leg encounter with Canada to advance to this stage, coach Gary Gold will be looking for his troops to kick on and show that three full seasons of MLR (Major League Rugby) have boosted them into a higher orbit. Awaiting them at Glendale, Colorado's Infinity Park will be Los Teros of Uruguay, who have their own ambitions to pursue. The Eagle's and Teros have met 6 times since 2014, with the record standing at 3 wins for the US, 2 for Uruguay, and one tie. Los Teros took the most recent game 32-25, and another victory on Saturday would give them the advantage heading home to Montevideo for the second leg the following weekend. Let's take a look at how the teams match up.

Uruguay is riding a four-game win streak that has seen them reach this stage of qualification ahead of Brazil and Chile. Wins over those two Americas South opponents were crucial, but perhaps the most telling result was a recent 42-26 win against Argentina XV, basically the Pumas "B" side. That was a reversal of a 53-19 loss to a similar Argentina XV just last October. Could that be an indicator of a rising Teros program? They will bring a scrappy and physical approach versus the Eagles, but will be missing scrum-half Agustin Ormaechea, son of Teros legend Diego Ormaechea. Can they overcome the loss of their talisman?

For the Eagles, it's been a mixed 2021. Now, they'll look to build on that convincing and much-needed 38-16 win over neighbors Canada with another strong performance against Uruguay. If the Eagles want to be the big dog in Americas rugby, and take the next step up to Tier 1 status, this would be a good time to show their stuff. The 2021 MLR season is in the rear view mirror; the players are well rested, and they have been able to work together at camp. Look for powerful ball carriers Hanco Germishuys, Joe Taufete'e and newcomer Andrew Guerra to make the hard yards, while young Tavite Lopeti could bring sorely needed penetration to the US midfield backs in his first start.

The Eagles should have a bit too much talent and depth for the Teros, but they'll be a tough nut to crack—prediction: USA wins 24-19, and takes a precarious lead to Montevideo next weekend.