The British & Irish Lions began their 2025 campaign with a jolt, narrowly falling 24-28 to a tenacious Argentina side in a gripping contest at Dublin’s Aviva Stadium. Intended as a warm-up before their tour of Australia, the match turned into a fierce test, with the Lions given a reminder that nothing on a rugby field is ever guaranteed.
Despite the loss, there were encouraging signs. Tries from Bundee Aki and Tadhg Beirne, along with a penalty try from a dominant maul, showcased the Lions’ potential. The early scrum battles were also promising, with Ellis Genge and Finlay Bealham putting their opposite numbers under pressure. Yet, the game’s pace and Argentina’s ambition exposed flaws in the Lions’ cohesion and composure.
Argentina, missing a few key starters, began with sharp intent. Ignacio Mendy’s early try set the tone, and Tomás Albornoz added another just before half-time after a costly Lions handling error. Their 21-10 lead at the break was well-earned, stemming from quick ball movement, disciplined defense, and well-timed counterattacks.
The Lions had their chances. Luke Cowan-Dickie came close to scoring but lost control of the ball, and a promising Tuipulotu try was ruled out due to a knock-on. Nonetheless, the growing synergy between half-backs Alex Mitchell and Fin Smith offered glimpses of a structured attacking threat, while Tuipulotu’s midfield presence was a consistent bright spot.
Early in the second half, the Lions responded with power. A driving maul near the try-line forced a penalty try and a yellow card for Mayco Vivas, reducing Argentina to 14 men. Soon after, Genge powered forward and Beirne finished off the move, giving the Lions a brief 24-21 lead.
But Argentina refused to fade. Their resilience was evident as they struck again through Santiago Cordero, whose blistering counterattack sealed the result. It was a fitting end to a match defined by intensity and momentum swings.
The contest, watched by a sellout crowd of 51,700, underlined the Lions’ status as a globally loved rugby brand. It also served as a valuable reminder of the risks involved in pre-tour fixtures, with every player conscious of avoiding injury before the main event.
If this match is a taste of what’s to come, fans can expect a thrilling tour Down Under. The Lions, stung by defeat but buoyed by potential, now turn their focus to Australia with plenty of lessons in hand and much still to prove.
