First change:
Argentina made history on Saturday when they beat the All Blacks for the first time on New Zealand soil 25-18 on day three of the Rugby Championship, which brings together four of the best coaches in the southern hemisphere. In Christchurch. The Pumas, aided by 20 points from Emiliano Boffelli, did not forgive doubts from Ian Foster’s New Zealanders, who squandered an early 15-6 lead.
Argentina lead the tournament with 9 points and two wins from three dates. Australia also added 9 points after beating South Africa a few hours ago (25-17) in Adelaide. The ‘All Blacks’ finish with 5 points and the ‘Springboks’ with 4 points.
Two weeks after their stunning win at home against Australia, Australian coach Michael Cheika’s charges are offering good feelings a year ahead of the World Cup in France.
In stark contrast to New Zealand’s situation, confidence was short-lived with a win over South Africa in Johannesburg two weeks ago.
The All Blacks’ boat seems to have wobbled after a setback to Ireland (29-20) in the November Tests. France (40-25), Ireland (23-12 and 32-22), South Africa (26-10) and now Argentina have beaten the men in black.
Next up, on September 3, Argentina face New Zealand again, in Hamilton.
A fresh defeat at home will increase the pressure to an unbearable level for the New Zealand team, especially for their coach Ian Foster, who was replaced by New Zealand federation president Mark Robinson a few days ago. New Zealand had never lost three consecutive home Tests before, and a fourth would be dangerous.
The Pumas’ performance was reminiscent of when they thrashed New Zealand for the first time (25-15) in Sydney two years ago. On that occasion, fly half Nicolas Sanchez kicked six penalties and signed one conversion, a feat equaled by winger Boffeli, who scored all seven of his shots.
Battling an aggressive and efficient Argentina defence, the New Zealanders conceded a try after an error by Argentina third row Juan Martin Gonzalez (47).
With AFP
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