Rugby Championship: All Blacks coach Robertson respects Pumas threat after 2024 shock defeat

Coach Scott Robertson acknowledged the quality and experience within the Argentine ranks, saying they make the most of key moments on the field. “They create a lot. They're a team with a lot of experience. A lot of them play in Europe, they're well coached and play with passion.

"They’ve got speed to finish, so they're threatening. It's Test footy and among the top eight anyone can beat anyone on the night. You've got to be at your best in every game.”

Argentina’s rise has added to the already competitive nature of this year’s Championship, with Australia and South Africa also boasting strong squads. Los Pumas kicked off 2025 with a blockbuster victory over the British & Irish Lions in Dublin, to send Andy Farrell's tourists 'down under' along with the sour taste of defeat. Argentina then had a mixed bag as they succumbed to two close defeats to England, before closing out their Summer with a landslide victory over Uruguay for some South American bragging rights.

Robertson said, “You've got an Aussie team that played some great footy at the back of their Test series [with the British & Irish Lions]. You've got the South Africans. We know how strong they are and the Argentinians on their day are so creative. It's a hell of a competition, very tight and just what we need.”

The All Blacks squad is not without changes. Wallace Sititi and Tamaiti Williams will not be considered for the first Test as the coaching staff manage player workloads and injuries.

One player returning to top form is Ardie Savea. After a demanding start to the season, including 17 games played with heavy minutes, Savea has had a three-week break and appears ready to make a significant impact.

Robertson commented, “We'll take it week by week. We're mindful of his minutes, but one thing about him [Ardie Savea] is he's resilient and consistent. We look after and manage individuals, but he's in the zone at the moment.”

Injuries in the halfback position have paved the way for Cortez Ratima to start in Cordoba. Robertson highlighted Ratima’s growing experience and the role he will play in their game plan. “He's played 10 Tests for us now. We gave him a good crack last year to be ready for moments like this. He's learning like everyone does, but he gets the ball off the deck and into a 10's [first five-eighths'] hands and we want to play fast, and he'll get better with experience and maturity.”

Beyond tactics and squad management, Robertson emphasized the value of the touring environment for the players’ development and team cohesion. “One of the gifts of being involved with an international rugby team is touring. You're living with a group of people that love the same sport as you. You've got some great mates and a target at the end of the week. But you enjoy the process of getting there and having fun.”

With the All Blacks facing a passionate Argentine crowd in Cordoba for the first Test, the stage is set for a thrilling start to the Rugby Championship. Both sides know that in such a tight competition, the margin for error is slim and every play counts.