The British and Irish Lions Argentina vs Dublin tour opener promises more than just a warm-up. It’s the first time the Lions have ever played a match in Ireland, a moment that brings pride across all four nations, with fans tuning in from London pubs to Welsh valleys. The fixture marks the beginning of a 10-match tour that will see the squad face Australia in three Tests and take on regional sides across the country. But first, it’s Argentina under the lights at the Aviva Stadium.
The Lions are rarely short of drama, but this summer brings a different sort of intensity. It’s a shorter tour, the Test selection is wide open, and the opener against Argentina is far from ceremonial. The Pumas have named a side brimming with Test experience, which makes this one of the hardest pre-tour fixtures in recent memory. For Andy Farrell, this is no gentle start – it’s a full-on trial run before heading Down Under.
All eyes are on England’s Fin Smith at fly-half. With Bath’s Finn Russell still viewed by many as the likely starter for the first Test in Brisbane on 19th July, Smith now has the chance to show what he can do in a Lions jersey. Those who’ve followed his progress at Northampton know he plays clean, tidy rugby, the kind that gets a team ticking. Now, with the Lions shirt on his back, the 22-year-old has the chance to shape the tone of the tour.
What’s equally intriguing is the centre pairing. Sione Tuipulotu and Bundee Aki, both usually found at inside centre, will line up together. It’s not a conventional pick, but one built on power. It hints that the Lions may be looking to dominate the gain-line early, simplify the shape, and let the back three, Marcus Smith, Duhan van der Merwe, and Tommy Freeman, make space out wide. If the forwards can give them a solid platform, expect fireworks.
Then there’s the back-row. Tom Curry, Jac Morgan, and Ben Earl may not be the most balanced trio in terms of style, but they all bring raw energy. It’s a unit built to disrupt – fast over the ball, aggressive in the tackle, relentless at the breakdown. For a team that’s only just come together, that could be exactly what’s needed to force quick turnovers and fast counters.
Of course, Lions fans know the risk of underestimating Argentina. The last time these two sides met in 2005, the result was a 25–25 draw. That Lions team went on to struggle in New Zealand. This time around, the expectation is different. The tour has been more carefully structured, the squad more experienced, and the support setup more aligned.
It’s also the first time the Lions have played at home, albeit in Dublin, before heading off. For UK fans, it’s a rare chance to see the team live before the time zones and travel make viewing more difficult. With Sky Sports showing every match live, and options to stream via a NOW Day or Month Pass, it’s never been easier to follow the tour from home, or from your local.
The money matters too. Players will reportedly earn more this tour than in 2017, part of a shared profit arrangement that rewards performance and longevity. However, it’s the opportunity that matters more, especially for debutants looking to make their mark in one of sport’s most iconic teams.
Argentina will test this group. But it’s that kind of challenge that could sharpen the Lions faster than any training session ever could. It’s not about perfection yet but about combinations, confidence, and resilience. And whether you’re a seasoned fan or a casual viewer, this opener feels important.
We’ll be watching closely.
| Date | Opponent | Venue |
|---|---|---|
| Friday, 20 June | Argentina | Dublin (Aviva Stadium) |
| Saturday, 28 June | Western Force | Perth |
| Wednesday, 2 July | Queensland Reds | Brisbane |
| Saturday, 5 July | NSW Waratahs | Sydney |
| Wednesday, 9 July | ACT Brumbies | Canberra |
| Saturday, 12 July | Invitational AU–NZ XV | Adelaide |
| Saturday, 19 July | Australia (First Test) | Brisbane |
| Wednesday, 22 July | First Nations & Pasifika XV | Melbourne |
| Saturday, 26 July | Australia (Second Test) | Melbourne |
| Saturday, 2 August | Australia (Third Test) | Sydney |
All matches from the 2025 British and Irish Lions tour will be shown live on Sky Sports, and fans can also stream every game with a NOW Sports Day or Month Membership without a contract.
For more updates on British and Irish Lions tour and all upcoming international rugby coverage, visit EyeOnLondon. We’d love to hear your views in the comments below!
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