Agustín Creevy Leads Argentina to Historic Victory Over All Blacks

Agustín Creevy scored the decisive try as Argentina shocked New Zealand with a 38-33 victory in Wellington, marking a surprising start to the All Blacks’ Rugby Championship title defense. This win, Argentina’s third against New Zealand following victories in Sydney (2020) and Christchurch (2022) saw the All Blacks concede their highest-ever points at home. Creevy, 39, crossed the try line with 10 minutes remaining, giving Argentina a crucial five-point lead.

Santiago Carreras cemented the Pumas’ victory with a late penalty. New Zealand initially dominated with Damian McKenzie scoring 15 points through penalties and a try, and setting up lock Sam Darry for a debut try with a deft chip-and-chase. Argentina responded with a try from centre Lucio Cinti, but McKenzie quickly regained the lead for New Zealand by assisting centre Anton Lienert-Brown’s try.

Argentina’s Mateo Carreras then closed the gap with a try just before halftime, capitalizing on a defensive error. The Pumas took their first lead early in the second half when lock Franco Molina scored his maiden Test try following a line-out. Mark Telea briefly restored New Zealand’s advantage with a try, but Carreras’ penalty brought Argentina within two points. Agustín Creevy’s try, followed by Carreras’ conversion, put Argentina ahead.

Despite New Zealand’s efforts to recover, errors plagued their performance. Carreras’ late penalty sealed the win for Argentina. The teams will face each other again in Auckland on August 17, as the Rugby Championship continues.