New Zealand returned to the summit of world rugby with a hard-fought 41-24 victory over Argentina in Córdoba, a result that showcased their attacking firepower while underlining areas still in need of improvement.
The All Blacks raced to a 31-10 lead at halftime, only to see Argentina mount a spirited second-half fightback that reduced the gap to just seven points. However, two late tries from replacement hooker Samisoni Taukei’aho sealed the win, ensuring the visitors claimed six tries to the Pumas’ three.
Sevu Reece crossed for a brace of tries while Ardie Savea once again underlined his world-class status with a standout performance in the loose. Beauden Barrett was influential at fly-half, contributing 11 points with the boot and dictating territory with composed tactical kicking.
Argentina’s resistance was led by fly-half Tomas Albornoz, who scored 14 points including a powerful individual try early in the second half. Back-rower Joaquin Oviedo also crossed as the hosts closed the gap to 31-24 with 15 minutes to play. The crowd roared the Pumas on as they sniffed an upset, but their momentum was cut short when Taukei’aho muscled his way over twice in the closing stages.
Despite the victory, New Zealand’s captain Scott Barrett admitted his side lacked consistency across the 80 minutes. The All Blacks started strongly and finished with authority but were guilty of lapses in discipline and intensity that allowed Argentina back into the contest. Maintaining focus for the full game remains a work in progress for a team with ambitions of sustained dominance.
The result not only continued New Zealand’s unbeaten run in 2025 – which already includes a 3-0 home series win over France – but also propelled them back to the top of the world rankings for the first time since 2021. They leapfrogged reigning world champions South Africa, who fell to a shock 38-22 defeat against Australia in Johannesburg earlier in the day.
Argentina, meanwhile, extended their wait for a home victory over New Zealand, which now stretches to 15 matches. Despite flashes of brilliance and a passionate home crowd, the Pumas were unable to sustain the intensity required to topple the All Blacks.
The two sides will meet again next weekend in Buenos Aires, where Argentina will be desperate to turn their fightback into a historic win
