In the latest Rugby Championship showdown, Argentina faced a tough defeat against the All Blacks, falling 41-24 at Estadio Mario Alberto Kempes. Here’s how the Los Pumas players fared in this intense clash.
Juan Cruz Mallía (5) was largely invisible throughout the match, failing to leave his mark on the game. Rodrigo Isgró (6) managed to score the opening try for Argentina and showed solid aerial skills, though his contributions were limited. Centre Lucio Cinti (7) made a strong case at his usual position, actively engaging and making significant plays. Santiago Chocobares (7), returning from rest, brought physicality and much-needed vigor to the midfield.
On the wing, Bautista Delguy (6) demonstrated agility and a knack for the kick-chase, but struggled to find space to fully utilize his speed. The highlight for Argentina was Tomás Albornoz (8), who showcased why he might just be the world's top fly-half right now, impressively breaking the gain line and constantly involving himself in play.
Gonzalo García (5) appeared hesitant against the All Blacks' formidable rush defense, which hampered his performance. In the back row, Joaquín Oviedo (7) and Marcos Kremer (6) were impactful, with Oviedo's powerful carries notable in the second half. Kremer, however, was hampered by an early injury.
"Pablo Matera was everywhere, tackling, carrying, and securing turnovers. Truly a magnificent performance,"
Pablo Matera (8) lived up to his legendary status, playing a critical role in both attack and defense. The lock pairing of Pedro Rubiolo and Franco Molina (both 6) battled hard but were hindered by set-piece errors. Prop Pedro Delgado (4) struggled in the scrum, showing his inexperience at this level.
The captain Julián Montoya (6) was reliable in the lineout and active around the field, but Mayco Vivas (3) had a night to forget, struggling in the scrums and earning a yellow card for a breakdown infringement. The substitutions brought some stability, particularly from Guido Petti and Juan Martin Gonzalez in the loose, but the lineout chaos post-Montoya was detrimental, squandering any momentum built in the later stages of the game.
Despite a spirited fightback, the match slipped from Argentina’s grasp, underlined by a crumbling set-piece that left them scrambling and ultimately sealed their fate against a seasoned All Blacks squad.