Ireland produced an impressive performance against Argentina, winning 42-12 at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin on 6 November.
Hugo Keenan led the attack with three tries as Andy Farrell’s side secured a bonus-point victory. Ireland also showed their strength in defence and their ability to punish mistakes.
Argentina started well and scored first. However, Ireland soon took control and dominated much of the match.
The result gives Ireland a strong start to their Nations Championship campaign.
Argentina Start Strong, but Ireland Fight Back
Argentina opened the scoring after just 10 minutes.
Mateo Carreras finished a cross-field kick from Tomás Albornoz to put the visitors ahead. It was an encouraging start for the Pumas.
Ireland responded quickly through Hugo Keenan. Mack Hansen helped create the opportunity, and Sam Prendergast added the conversion.
The Irish forwards then started to control the game.
Captain Dan Sheehan scored the second try after a strong attacking move near the Argentine line. Keenan followed with another try after Ireland disrupted an opposition lineout.
Ireland went into half-time with a 21-5 advantage.
Prendergast Helps Ireland Secure the Bonus Point
Ireland continued their attacking pressure after the break.
Just two minutes into the second half, Prendergast found space in the Argentine defence. He broke through and scored Ireland’s fourth try.
The score secured the bonus point and gave the hosts even more confidence.
Argentina responded through Carreras, who scored his second try after a strong run from Santiago Chocobares. Albornoz converted to make it 28-12.
However, Ireland refused to let the visitors build momentum.
Keenan completed his hat-trick in the 50th minute. His third try highlighted Ireland’s attacking quality and put the match firmly beyond Argentina’s reach.
Argentina Struggle With Discipline
The Pumas also faced problems with discipline throughout the match.
Justo Piccardo received a yellow card during the first half. Replacement lock Efraín Elias also spent time in the sin bin after a high tackle on Keenan.
Ireland used the extra space to increase the pressure.
Their forwards drove towards the Argentine try line through a powerful maul. Replacement hooker Ronan Kelleher finished the move and scored Ireland’s sixth try.
Ciarán Frawley added the conversion to complete the 42-12 victory.
Several players made important contributions throughout the match. Ryan Baird disrupted Argentina’s lineout, while Hansen and the Irish forwards helped create attacking opportunities.
Farrell Looks Ahead to Ireland’s Next Challenges
Despite the comfortable win, Andy Farrell believes Ireland can still improve.
The head coach praised his team’s performance but also highlighted areas where they could have shown more control.
Keenan’s return was one of the biggest positives. His three tries earned him Player of the Match honours.
Ireland now turn their attention to two important fixtures at the Aviva Stadium.
They will face Fiji on 14 November before taking on South Africa on 21 November.
Argentina, meanwhile, will look to recover when they travel to Italy for their next international match.
Ireland’s victory sends a clear message to their rivals. The team showed attacking strength, strong forward play and the depth needed for a demanding international campaign.