All Blacks Show Support for Argentina with Scaloneta Shirts
Waiting for the arrival of the All Blacks at the Emperor hotel, a group of boys from los Robles school were surprised to see the players descend from the bus. Not as of their size or fearsome expression, but for their cordiality in smiling for a selfie or signing a Champa t-shirt. After two weeks in Buenos Aires, and 13 seasons visiting the country year after year, such attributes are well known. This time, the astonishment stemmed from their attire: most were dressed in the Argentine soccer team shirt. Some sported the colors of Boca, River, but the Scaloneta t-shirts were in the majority, worn by players like Ardie Savea, Rieko Ioane, Samisoni Taukei’aho, Ethan de Groot, Will Jordan, and Finlay Christie, proudly displaying the light blue and white.
Just 48 hours before their rematch against the Pumas, wearing the colors of their rivals attracted attention. Is it admiration for the world champions? Identification with Argentina after two weeks in the country? partly, but the ultimate reason is commercial. “Our main sponsor is also from Argentina, so we jumped on the Argentine football train. They are world champions, football means a lot to the country, and we are happy to support them,” explains Scott Robertson, the coach of the all Blacks. “as in any professionally practiced profession, one admires other athletes. The passion and obsession of the peopel here are incredible; you don’t have to look far to realize how much football means. Players like Messi and the entire Argentine team are special.”
Thursday is a special day for Robertson: he celebrates his 51st birthday. Born on August 21, 1974, he didn’t have a standout career as a rugbier from new Zealand: 23 games between 1998 and 2002 as a flanker. But he is well-remembered in Argentina as the author of the try that sealed the triumph over the Pumas in the test match held at River’s stadium in 2001. He faced off against Felipe Contepomi. He excelled as coach of the Crusaders, leading the team to win Super rugby three times in a row (the last time by defeating the Jaguares in the final in 2019) and Super rugby Pacific four times consecutively.
That Try to Los Pumas
Robertson celebrates his anniversary preparing his team in Newman and then receiving three media outlets at a press conference. Of course, the celebrations began a day before: in New Zealand, Argentine Wednesday was already local Thursday. A roast prepared by Christian Petersen at the San Fernando club, including ribs, patagonian lamb, and sweetbreads, among other delicacies, served as a gift. “It was amazing,” Robertson praises. “Pablo [Matera] when he came [to the Crusaders], spent hours showing us the process with great pride and joy.We realized that the critically important thing is that, almost more than the meat itself, it’s an event. They have served us wonders. We are grateful.”
“Unreal”
–he has been to Argentina several times…Here’s a breakdown of what attracts people to Argentine rugby, according to the provided text, along with other key takeaways, formatted for clarity:
What Attracts People to Argentine Rugby (According to Robertson):
Strong Club Structure: The depth and association of Argentine rugby clubs are highly extraordinary. Clubs have multiple high-level teams (5+ in the senior squad) and robust youth divisions (2-3 teams per age group). This provides a strong foundation for player growth.
Player Depth: The sheer number of players involved in the sport is notable.
Passion & Intelligence: Argentines are described as being very passionate about rugby and possessing a strong understanding of the game (as exemplified by Felipe Contepomi).
Talented Players: Players like Pablo Matera are recognized as excellent and impactful.Juan Martín González and Mateo Carreras are noted for their skills and experience.
Other Key Points from the Text:
Felipe Contepomi: Robertson describes Contepomi as a very intelligent rugby man, passionate about his country, and a good person.
Pablo Matera: Robertson acknowledges Matera’s importance to the argentine team (“When Pablo appears, Argentina appears”).
All blacks Lineup Change: Simon Parker (a 1.97m, 117kg number 8) will make his international debut for the All Blacks against Argentina. All Blacks Bank Changes: Joe Williams and wallace Simin return to the bench after injury. Quinn Taupaea will replace the injured Anton Liener-Brown.
Respect for Los Pumas: Robertson acknowledges Argentina as a “great team in attack” and anticipates a “great game.”
Focus for All blacks: The All Blacks are focusing on refining aspects of their game, capitalizing on opportunities, and maintaining discipline.
* Argentine Team Changes: Robertson notes the changes in the Argentine team, specifically the inclusion of Juan Martín González and Mateo Carreras in the starting lineup, recognizing Carreras’ speed and elusiveness and González’s experience and balance.