Scotland made a flying start to their Nations Championship campaign with an entertaining 47-38 victory over Argentina in Córdoba, producing a seven-try masterclass to overcome the hosts in a pulsating contest.
The visitors weathered an early Argentine surge before taking control with clinical attacking rugby, eventually claiming one of their finest victories on Argentine soil. The result also served as sweet revenge after Scotland’s painful collapse against Los Pumas in their previous meeting.
Argentina Strike First, Scotland Respond
Argentina opened the scoring through Joaquín Oviedo, who powered over from a rolling maul, but Scotland quickly found their rhythm.
Captain Sione Tuipulotu sparked the comeback by crossing for the visitors’ first try before Pierre Schoeman added another. Although Argentina stayed in touch through penalties and sustained pressure, Scotland carried a 19-10 lead into halftime after Rory Hutchinson finished a flowing move created by Tuipulotu.
Scots Pull Away in Second Half
Scotland took firm control after the interval with a series of well-worked tries.
Gregor Brown and Scott Cummings, celebrating his 50th Test appearance, both crossed the line before debutant hooker Gregor Hiddleston marked his international debut with a memorable try. Winger Kyle Rowe added Scotland’s seventh score to put the result beyond doubt.
Argentina fought back bravely in the closing stages, with late tries reducing the deficit and earning the hosts a bonus point, but Scotland’s earlier dominance ensured there would be no repeat of last year’s dramatic collapse.
Tuipulotu Leads by Example
Captain Sione Tuipulotu was at the heart of Scotland’s victory, scoring one try and creating another with an influential all-round display in midfield. His leadership helped the visitors dictate the tempo for long periods despite Argentina’s spirited resistance.
The win gives head coach Gregor Townsend the perfect start to the inaugural Nations Championship, while Scotland will now turn their attention to an even sterner challenge against world champions South Africa in Pretoria.
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