Argentina Create History With First-Ever Home Win Over All Blacks

Argentina 29 – 23 New Zealand Buenos Aires, Rugby Championship Round Two

Argentina have made history with their first-ever home victory over the All Blacks, downing the men in black 29–23 in Buenos Aires in front of a raucous, emotional crowd.

Juan Martín González and Gonzalo García crossed for the Pumas, with García’s second-half try sparking wild celebrations. Santiago Carreras kept the scoreboard ticking with 13 points from the boot, while Joaquín Albornoz and Emiliano Mallía also contributed penalties to secure the famous win.

For New Zealand, Billy Proctor, Fletcher Newell and Samisoni Taukei’aho dotted down, with Beauden Barrett and Damian McKenzie adding points from the tee. But discipline proved costly as three yellow cards – including two in quick succession before half-time – robbed the All Blacks of momentum.

Despite a late penalty from McKenzie that salvaged a losing bonus point, the All Blacks never looked comfortable. Captain Scott Barrett admitted his side were “outclassed” on the night:

“They got over the gainline and they held the ball, while we gave away penalties which just fed their game. They’re a quality team and they showed more passion and intensity.”

In contrast, Argentina captain Julián Montoya hailed his team’s belief and resilience after bouncing back from last week’s 41–24 defeat in Córdoba:

“The stadium was rocking, honestly it was amazing. I’m really proud of the team and the whole squad. We believed that we could win – we’ve believed for a few years now. We came back from a tough loss and we stayed in the fight.”

The victory lifts Argentina level on points with South Africa, who earlier beat Australia 30–22, while all four teams in the Rugby Championship now sit with one win apiece. For the Pumas, however, this night will be remembered forever as the moment they finally conquered the All Blacks on home soil.

Full-Time: Argentina 29 (González, García tries; Carreras 2 cons, 3 pens; Albornoz pen; Mallía pen)New Zealand 23 (Proctor, Newell, Taukei’aho tries; McKenzie con, pen; B Barrett pen; McKenzie pen)