The Springboks’ undefeated streak in the Rugby Championship came to an end with a narrow 28-29 loss to Argentina in their fifth round match held in Santiago del Estero. This victory marked Argentina’s first win over South Africa since 2018, breaking a streak of eight successive defeats and keeping their championship hopes alive.
The match began explosively for the visitors, who quickly established a 17-0 advantage within the first 12 minutes. Tries from Aphelele Fassi and Jesse Kriel, both converted by Handre Pollard, set the tone. Fassi’s try came from a set-piece off a lineout, while Kriel powered through the defense at an acute angle.
After Pollard extended the lead with a penalty, Argentina responded rapidly with a try from Mateo Carreras, following a well-executed lineout play that featured a switch from flyhalf Tomas Albornoz and an effective carry by inside centre Santiago Chocobares.
A pivotal moment occurred when South African winger Kurt Lee Arendse received a yellow card for a high tackle on Carreras. Los Pumas seized the opportunity, scoring twice while Arendse was sidelined. Pablo Matera capitalized on a wide play to score, followed by Joel Sclavi’s try from a maul that propelled Argentina into the lead.
Tomas Albornoz added a fourth try for Argentina with a clever dummy that allowed him to slide through the defense. The Springboks managed a response just before halftime, with Cobus Reinach scoring to narrow the deficit to 26-22.
The second half saw intense competition, with both teams engaging in strategic kicking and set-piece battles. Pollard and Libbok exchanged penalties, briefly putting South Africa ahead 28-26. However, Albornoz quickly reestablished Argentina’s lead with a successful kick ten minutes from the end.
In a bid to secure victory, Argentina attempted to extend their lead through a lineout. Yet, South Africa’s Eben Etzebeth executed a crucial steal, enabling the Springboks to advance downfield. With only a minute left, Libbok had the chance to snatch a win with a penalty from 30 meters but missed, sealing Argentina’s victory.
The decisive match for the tournament’s outcome will take place in Nelspruit next weekend, where both teams will clash again. The Springboks enter this rematch with a five-point lead in the standings, courtesy of a losing bonus point earned during the game.