NELSPRUIT, South Africa – Argentina has transformed its reputation for indiscipline in rugby this year, particularly in the Rugby Championship where they have dramatically improved their discipline on the field. Historically, the Pumas were known to give away unnecessary penalties that often gifted opponents easy scoring opportunities.
However, this season, they have stood out as the only team not to receive any red or yellow cards throughout the tournament, having conceded just 50 penalties—fewer than any other team participating in the championship.
Coach Felipe Contepomi attributed this change not to a specific focus on discipline, but rather to an overall enhancement of their approach to matches. “We don’t speak directly about discipline, but we want to be the best team we can be; maybe that’s the result of insisting on doing the right things,” he said at a press conference prior to their upcoming clash with South Africa in Nelspruit.
He emphasized the team’s commitment to thorough training and maintaining their method of play, particularly in defense. “We just don’t cheat. It’s part of our values and behavior, and we take pride in that, which may contribute to giving away fewer penalties and avoiding cards,” he continued.
Argentina has gone 12 test matches without a player being sent off to the sin-bin or receiving a red card. The team’s philosophy revolves around trusting teammates and applying their system collaboratively.
While Argentina has only a slim chance of securing the Rugby Championship title, they must achieve a substantial victory against the Springboks at the Mbombela Stadium to clinch the trophy for the first time. Their performance has been commendable, with home victories against South Africa and Australia, alongside an away win over New Zealand, representing their best results since joining the competition in 2012.