Argentina stunned the Lions in Dublin, delivering a statement win that challenges assumptions ahead of both teams’ demanding Test seasons.
Argentina’s 28–24 victory over the British & Irish Lions in Dublin delivered more than just a historic result — it reshaped expectations ahead of the 2025 Test calendar.
For the Lions, the match offered a crucial preparation platform before their Australian tour, while the Pumas used the 1888 Cup clash to showcase depth, resilience, and tactical sharpness. Though the fixture awarded no Test caps, the intensity, pressure, and international quality on display reflected its significance.
Argentina’s ability to outthink and outmuscle the Lions sent a clear message to global rugby audiences that they are contenders, not underdogs.
Historic Achievement For Los Pumas
Argentina stunned the British & Irish Lions with a dramatic four-point victory in Dublin, marking their first-ever win over the Lions.
They earned a crucial 1888 Cup win and disrupted Lions’ momentum ahead of the Australia tour opener.
Players and fans savoured a thrilling battle at Lansdowne Road, and Argentina’s performance signalled their intent on the world stage.
How The First Half Played Out
Argentina raced into a 21–10 halftime lead through clinical and polished play.
Ignacio Mendy touched down after quick Pumas handling exposed shaky Lions lineout defence.
Tomas Albornoz added a second try and extended the lead with penalties, keeping pressure firmly on the Lions. Bundee Aki’s consolation try sparked brief hope, but Argentina remained composed and disciplined.
How The Second Half Played Out
The Lions regrouped after halftime, earning a penalty try and scoring through Tadhg Beirne. Their comeback seemed to gain momentum, and they edged ahead to create a tense and enthralling second half.
However, Argentina struck back when Santiago Cordero crossed the line for a decisive late try. Albornoz’s accurate boot sealed the 28–24 score, capping a historic afternoon for the Pumas.
Where The Game Was Won For Argentina And Lost For The Lions
Argentina’s disciplined performance neutralised several Lions’ attack phases. The Lions’ handling errors, missed tackles, and faulty lineouts overshadowed their potential dominance.
Argentina executed quick ball movement, exposing the elite team’s structural inconsistencies. Their flyhalf, Albornoz, controlled tempo and territory, punishing the Lions’ reactive errors.
The Lions showed promise during scrummaging and mauls, but Argentina disrupted set-piece flow at key moments. By contrast, Argentina’s calm, cohesive play — especially on their feet — provided strategic superiority during tight phases.
Coach Andy Farrell lamented poor discipline, error frequency, and wavering intensity after the final whistle. And former centre Owen Farrell echoed that message, identifying Argentina’s penalties and turnovers as key differentiators.
Confidence Booster For Pumas Is Wake-Up Call For Lions
While warm-up matches don’t determine series outcomes, Argentina’s victory sends a message to the touring Lions.
The Lions (1.33) now confront pressure to fix issues before heading to Australia (3.20) for the first Test on 19 July. Argentina gained confidence and validation by defeating one of rugby’s elite, reinforcing their progression since joining the Rugby Championship.
With momentum high, Argentina prepare for successive Tests against England and Uruguay, believing they can continue writing new history.
Argentina’s landmark victory reflects meticulous preparation, superb execution, and unwavering belief.
For the Lions, it’s a challenging start that demands rapid recovery before taking on the Wallabies on Australian soil.
