The Springboks’ unbeaten 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 marks Argentina’s first victory over South Africa since 2018, breaking an eight-game losing streak and helping to keep their slim title aspirations alive.
The Springboks started strong, swiftly jumping to a 17-0 lead within the first 12 minutes, thanks to tries from Aphelele Fassi and Jesse Kriel, both converted by Handre Pollard. Fassi’s try came from a set piece off a lineout, followed by Kriel breaking through near the ruck.
However, Argentina responded immediately, scoring from a lineout play after a clever switch from flyhalf Tomas Albornoz, which set up Mateo Carreras for a try. The turning point of the match occurred when Springbok winger Kurt Lee Arendse received a yellow card for a high tackle on Carreras. During his absence, Los Pumas capitalized by scoring two tries, with Pablo Matera and Joel Sclavi both crossing the line to take the lead.
Tomas Albornoz added another try shortly after, putting Argentina ahead 26-22 at halftime after Cobus Reinach managed to score for the Springboks just before the break.
The second half turned into a fierce contest characterized by tactical kicking and intense set-piece battles. Pollard and Libbok traded penalties, giving the Springboks a precarious 28-26 lead. However, with just 10 minutes remaining, Albornoz broke away from a set-piece, reclaiming the lead for Argentina with another successful kick.
Argentina had an opportunity to seal the victory from a lineout deep in enemy territory but was thwarted by a crucial steal from Eben Etzebeth. The Springboks advanced downfield and earned a penalty just outside the 30-meter mark with one minute to go. Unfortunately, Manie Libbok’s penalty attempt fell wide of the posts.
The tournament concludes next weekend in Nelspruit, where the teams will face each other again. Despite the defeat, the Springboks maintain a five-point lead in the standings due to their bonus point accrued from the match.