Scotland banished any lingering doubts from their recent struggles as they delivered a commanding 47-38 away victory against Argentina in Cordoba, showcasing their resurgence in the Nations Championship.

The Scots, having previously faltered against Argentina in a remarkable home loss last autumn, demonstrated remarkable composure, securing seven tries at Estadio Mario Alberto Kempes despite facing adversity in both halves.

Leading 19-10 at halftime thanks to tries from captain Sione Tuipulotu, prop Pierre Schoeman, and centre Rory Hutchinson, Scotland extended their lead with three more scores in the second half, thanks to contributions from Gregor Brown, Scott Cummings, debutant Gregor Hiddlestone, and Kyle Rowe. Fergus Burke and Tom Jordan also each converted three conversions.

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Scotland’s Sione Tuipulotu is tackled by Argentina’s Faustino Sanchez Valarolo and Gonzalo Garcia

Argentina mounted a late challenge, scoring two tries through Roque Cinti and Agustin Moyano, but Scotland’s resilience ensured victory. Captain Sione Tuipulotu noted the match was a tactical battle reminiscent of their prior encounter, emphasizing the team’s preparedness for tight contests.

Argentina’s fortunes were boosted by early tries from Joaquin Oviedo and Rodrigo Isgro, with Tomas Rapetti adding another in the 65th minute despite Scotland being reduced to 14 men. However, Scotland’s response sealed the win.

“We anticipated a tough, back-and-forth game, similar to our previous Argentina clash,” Tuipulotu reflected. “These strategies were discussed ahead of the match, particularly given we were playing away.”

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England conceded three early tries during their heavy defeat in Australia

What’s next?

World Rugby markets the 12-team Nations Championship as a North vs South showdown, with two conferences: southern teams traveling north in November and northern teams heading south in July. Scotland, now four wins from six Tests this year, prepares for a crucial clash against South Africa in Pretoria next Saturday (4.40pm start), followed by a match against Wales later that evening (8.10pm kick-off).

The tournament will culminate in a finals series in London in late November, aimed at crowning the world’s best team.

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