Australia Ends Eight-Match Losing Streak with Last-Gasp Victory Over Argentina in Rugby Championship

In a nail-biting encounter at Estadio Jorge Luis Hirschi in La Plata, Australia ended their eight-match Rugby Championship losing streak with a dramatic 20-19 victory over Argentina, thanks to a last-minute penalty from Ben Donaldson.

The Wallabies, who had not won a Rugby Championship match since 2022, found themselves trailing 16-7 in the second half, as the Pumas dominated the early exchanges in wet and challenging conditions. Argentina's early lead came courtesy of a try from Juan Martin Gonzalez, with Santiago Carreras adding the conversion and two penalties. Tomas Albornoz also chipped in with a penalty to extend their advantage.

Australia, however, showed resilience, responding with tries from Carter Gordon and Rob Valetini, both converted by Noah Lolesio. Lolesio also added a penalty to keep the Wallabies within striking distance.

With the rain pouring down in the coastal city, the match seemed destined to slip away from Australia. But with just over a minute left on the clock, Argentina conceded a crucial penalty near their own posts. The clock read 78:48 when the penalty was awarded, but play continued until 79:12, allowing Donaldson to line up the kick. By the time he struck the ball, the clock had passed 80 minutes.

Despite the pressure and the controversy surrounding the timing, Donaldson kept his nerve to slot the penalty, giving Australia a one-point lead. As the ball sailed through the posts, Argentina’s players surrounded the referee, protesting what they believed was an implied restart after the kick. However, the referee blew the final whistle, sealing Australia’s long-awaited victory.

The win marks a significant moment for the Wallabies, who have struggled in recent Rugby Championship campaigns. For Argentina, the loss will be a bitter pill to swallow, as they had controlled much of the match but were unable to close it out.

Australia will look to build on this momentum as they continue their campaign, while Argentina will aim to regroup after a heart-wrenching defeat in front of their home crowd. The match in La Plata will be remembered not only for its dramatic conclusion but also for the determination shown by both sides in challenging conditions.