The All Blacks delivered a resounding statement at Eden Park on Saturday, reclaiming their status as rugby’s benchmark with a commanding 42-10 victory over Argentina in the Rugby Championship. This emphatic win, which extended New Zealand's unbeaten streak at Eden Park to 50 Tests, was the perfect response to last week's shock defeat in Wellington—Scott Robertson’s first setback as head coach.
In a game where the All Blacks left nothing to chance, they quickly dismantled the Pumas with a five-try blitz in the first half, establishing a 35-3 lead by the break. Despite challenging conditions, with heavy rain and swirling winds, the All Blacks were clinical in execution, showing the precision and intensity that was missing a week earlier.
A Ruthless First-Half Performance
From the opening whistle, the All Blacks showcased their intent. The tactical nous of the coaching staff was evident, as they exploited Argentina’s defensive weaknesses with well-placed chip kicks and robust forward play. Damian McKenzie opened the scoring, finishing off a perfectly executed chip from Jordie Barrett. Ardie Savea, who led by example throughout the match, bulldozed over for the second try, setting the tone for a relentless first half.
The highlight of the half was the All Blacks’ ability to mix power with creativity. Caleb Clarke’s try came from a smart interception, while Will Jordan’s brace was a result of both individual brilliance and team cohesion. By the time Beauden Barrett sliced through the Pumas’ defense for the fifth try, the game was effectively over as a contest.
A Statement of Intent
What stood out in this performance was the All Blacks’ ability to adapt and learn from their mistakes. After being outmuscled in Wellington, they dominated the physical exchanges at Eden Park. Their scrum, which had been a weakness, became a weapon, consistently putting Argentina on the back foot. The forward pack laid the foundation, allowing the backs to shine in the challenging conditions.
Defensively, the All Blacks were vastly improved. Argentina, who had managed four tries in the previous encounter, were restricted to just one late score. The All Blacks’ line speed, physicality, and commitment ensured the Pumas had little space or time to create opportunities.
Looking Ahead
While this win was a reassuring return to form, the All Blacks know that tougher tests lie ahead. With two upcoming matches against the world champion Springboks in South Africa, Robertson’s men will need to build on this performance. The Springboks, with their physical style and tactical acumen, will pose a different and more formidable challenge.
This victory was a reminder of what the All Blacks are capable of when firing on all cylinders. However, consistency will be key as they head into the next phase of the Rugby Championship. The question now is whether they can maintain this level against the best teams in the world.
Key Performances
Will Jordan, in his first start since recovering from shoulder surgery, was electric, reminding everyone of his try-scoring prowess. Ardie Savea was immense, leading from the front with his relentless work rate and physicality. Damian McKenzie, flawless with the boot and sharp in attack, also put his hand up as a key playmaker moving forward.
The All Blacks may have silenced some of their critics with this performance, but the real test is yet to come. For now, though, they can take pride in a job well done—a dominant display at their spiritual home that reaffirms their place as one of rugby’s premier teams.
Final Score:
New Zealand 42 (Will Jordan 2, Damian McKenzie, Ardie Savea, Caleb Clarke, Beauden Barrett tries; McKenzie 6 conversions)
Argentina 10 (Juan Cruz Mallía try; Tomas Albornoz conversion, Santiago Carreras penalty)
Halftime: 35-3
As the All Blacks prepare to face the Springboks, this victory will provide both confidence and a crucial reminder of the standards required to compete at the highest level.
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