A convincing 42-12 win against Argentina in Dublin saw Ireland score six tries, yet head coach Andy Farrell believes his squad must play with greater ferocity to prepare for the World Cup in Australia next year.
Before the match, Farrell had been candid about the team's shortcomings less than a year away from the finals in Sydney, contrasting sharply with their quarter-final exit four years ago when they were on high form before falling short.
Mateo Carreras opened the scoring early for Los Pumas, but Ireland dominated under the Friday night lights to secure a comprehensive victory that marked a significant turnaround for the Six Nations champions.
Hugo Keenan led the attacking effort with a hat-trick in his first home appearance since the 2025 Six Nations concluded, while Dan Sheehan, Sam Prendergast and Ronan Kelleher also contributed tries to reach the six-figure mark.
Craig Casey impressed at scrum-half after being given an opportunity following the return of first-choice Jamison Gibson-Park from injury, though he started slowly before finding his rhythm in the second half.
The back three featured Baloucoune and Hansen, who had only played together once previously against South Africa four years ago, with Keenan's first try resulting from a fluid sequence where Baloucoune created space for Hansen to pass to the full-back for the conversion.
Injuries to Baloucoune, who left the field in the 58th minute, and Hansen, who continued after receiving medical attention, remain a particular concern given their integral role in Farrell's attacking setup.
World champions South Africa will face Ireland next as they prepare for the finals weekend in London, representing a stern test before the international window closes.
Farrell's comments regarding the need for more ruthlessness highlight the gap between their current performance and the standards required to challenge for global glory in the coming year.