Argentina pulled off a dramatic 29-28 victory against South Africa, preventing the world champions from securing the Rugby Championship title with a game to spare in Santiago.
The Springboks, who would have clinched the championship with a win, initially took control of the match with early tries from Aphelele Fassi and Jesse Kriel. However, the Pumas responded impressively, scoring four tries through Mateo Carreras, Pablo Matera, Joel Sclavi, and Tomas Albornoz, putting them ahead in the intense heat.
Cobus Reinach scored just before halftime to narrow Argentina’s lead to 26-22 at the break. In the second half, penalties from Handre Pollard and Manie Libbok gave South Africa a brief advantage, but Albornoz’s penalty put the home side back in front at 29-28.
Libbok had a chance late in the match to regain the lead for the Springboks, but his penalty attempt went wide, allowing Argentina to hold on for a memorable win.
This defeat marked South Africa’s first loss in the current Rugby Championship campaign, but they still sit atop the table with 19 points. The Springboks aim to secure their first title since 2019 in their final match against Argentina, who are now in second place with 14 points, scheduled for Saturday, September 28.
Earlier on Saturday, New Zealand edged out Australia with a 31-28 victory in Sydney.
Credit: BBC Sport
