Selknam regained their confidence and returned to victory after two consecutive defeats in the Súper Rugby Américas. The national franchise defeated Capibaras XV, 27-17, achieving their second win of the season. Coach Jake Mangin's team arrived at St.
George’s College with doubts. Winning was both a necessity and an obligation following a poor start to the season, having lost the last match against Dogos XV, which was the worst in their history. Facing them was the surprising trans-Andean team, Capibaras, who had positioned themselves third and aimed to not lose ground to the leaders.
However, the Chilean team struck back. Reflecting the inconsistent moment of the Chilean franchise, Capibaras started strong with a try from Gino Dicapua just two minutes into the match due to a defensive lapse. The Chileans shook off their lethargy and began to assert themselves in the lineouts and mauls.
Salvador Lues scored a try after a pick and go, and Matías Garafulic converted to put Selknam ahead. The match intensified and became increasingly physical, with the Chilean franchise holding firm in defense, although they struggled to progress offensively. The game remained tight until a surge from Rodrigo Fernández (27′) following a scrum.
Selknam excelled in set pieces again, and two minutes later, Nicolás Saab capped off a fantastic collective play across …
The sanction would mostly be served in the second half, where Dogliani reduced the gap with two penalties. The trans-Andean team capitalized on their kicking accuracy, an area where the national franchise notably faltered. Nevertheless, Selknam responded with a good try from Álvaro Castro (48′) to halt the visitors' momentum.
Garafulic successfully converted this time, leading to a second half that was tightly contested, marked by intensity and physical play. There was little advantage gained by either side. In the 74′ minute, Juan Bautista Baronio scored a penalty, tightening the score.
Only seven points separated the teams on the scoreboard. However, the Chilean franchise managed to withstand the pressure and sealed the victory with a penalty from Garafulic, finishing the match at 27-17. Selknam will face Pampas in the sixth round of the Super Rugby Américas on Saturday, March 28.