All Blacks Stunned by Argentina in Historic Rugby Championship Loss

The All Blacks experienced a shocking defeat against Argentina, falling 29-23 in a Rugby Championship match held in Buenos Aires on August 31, 2024. This loss marks a significant moment in rugby history, as it is the first time the All Blacks have lost a test match in Argentina in 40 years. The ramifications of the defeat are still unfolding, particularly with injuries affecting key players, including starting halfback Cortez Ratima, who left the field early in the first half.

Coach Scott Robertson reflected on the match, attributing the loss to a combination of factors. “Test footy’s tough,” he stated, highlighting that three yellow cards issued to his players contributed to their struggles. The cards were given to Will Jordan, Tupou Vaa’i, and Sevu Reece, although the severity of these penalties has sparked debate among fans and analysts.

Robertson noted that the All Blacks failed to handle contestable kicks from Argentina’s Santiago Carreras and Gonzalo García, which allowed the Pumas to gain momentum. “There’s lots of little areas that I can talk about, but it is fundamentally about how they got the domination of the game,” he said.

Captain Scott Barrett acknowledged that the team struggled with possession, stating, “With 40 percent territory and 40 percent ball, it’s hard to win a test match.” Despite his efforts, Barrett emphasized the need for improvement, recognizing the Pumas as a formidable opponent.

Statistical comparisons from the match reveal a stark contrast in performance. The Pumas made 148 carries compared to the All Blacks’ 84, and they achieved double the number of post-contact metres, including six line breaks. Key moments, such as botched lineouts in the final minutes, further compounded the All Blacks’ difficulties, allowing Argentina to capitalize on their opportunities.

Robertson expressed disappointment with the team’s execution, stating, “We didn’t execute well enough. The Pumas were hungry, won a lot of those scraps, and fed off the crowd.” The injury to Ratima, who sustained a chest injury, raises additional concerns, as the extent of his injury will be evaluated upon the team’s return to New Zealand.

Looking ahead, Robertson acknowledged the high standards set by previous All Blacks teams, stating that the current squad must meet those expectations each week. “These tests are their own story, and we’ve got to write it the best we can through effort,” he said.

As the All Blacks prepare for their upcoming match against world champions South Africa on September 6, 2024, they face the challenge of overcoming a historic home advantage. South Africa aims to be the first team to defeat the All Blacks at Eden Park since 1994, adding further pressure on Robertson’s squad to rebound from this unexpected loss.