Let's dive into a detailed analysis of the Argentina vs. Lions match, focusing on player ratings and overall performance. This breakdown will give you a clear picture of who shone, who struggled, and the critical moments that defined the game. We'll explore individual contributions and assess how each player impacted the match's outcome. Understanding player ratings involves considering various factors, including passing accuracy, tackles, tries, and overall influence on the game. Some players might exhibit brilliance in certain areas but fall short in others, making the rating process a comprehensive evaluation of their performance across the board. It's not just about the flashy moments; consistency and reliability also play significant roles in determining a player's rating. Remember, these ratings are subjective and based on observations and statistical analysis, aiming to provide a balanced perspective on each player's contribution to their team's effort during the Argentina vs. Lions clash. Keep reading to find out how your favorite players fared in this intense encounter.

Argentina Player Ratings

Argentina's performance was a mixed bag, with some players stepping up and others struggling to find their rhythm. Here’s a detailed look at each player’s rating:

Forwards

• Nahuel Tetaz Chaparro (Prop): Tetaz Chaparro anchored the scrum well and made several important tackles, earning a 7/10. His strength in the set-piece was crucial for Argentina, providing a solid platform for the backs to launch attacks. He demonstrated good work rate around the field, contributing to both defensive and offensive phases. However, his impact in open play could have been more significant. Chaparro's performance highlighted the importance of a strong foundation in the forwards, setting the tone for the rest of the team. His ability to hold his own against a formidable Lions pack was commendable, making him a key player in Argentina's forward unit. Improvement in his carrying and offloading skills could further elevate his game.
• Julian Montoya (Hooker): Montoya led from the front with his usual tenacity, scoring a try and making several key turnovers. His rating is a 8/10. Montoya was a constant threat at the breakdown, disrupting the Lions' flow and winning crucial penalties for his team. His leadership was evident throughout the match, rallying his teammates and setting an example with his relentless effort. In addition to his defensive contributions, Montoya also showcased his attacking prowess with a well-taken try. His lineout accuracy was generally solid, although there were a few instances where the throws could have been more precise. Overall, Montoya's performance was a standout, demonstrating his importance to the Argentina team. His energy and commitment are vital assets that inspire those around him.
• Francisco Gomez Kodela (Prop): Gomez Kodela provided stability in the scrum but was less visible in open play, resulting in a 6/10. Kodela's primary responsibility was to ensure the scrum remained solid, and he largely succeeded in this task. However, modern rugby demands more from props, and his involvement in other areas of the game was limited. While he made a few tackles, he didn't offer much in terms of carrying or passing. Gomez Kodela's performance reflects the evolving role of props, where set-piece strength needs to be complemented by mobility and versatility. To improve his rating, he would need to enhance his contributions outside of the scrum, becoming more of a factor in both attack and defense. His experience is valuable, but adapting to the demands of the modern game is essential for him to remain a key member of the squad.
• Guido Petti (Lock): Petti was a workhorse in the pack, making numerous tackles and securing crucial lineouts, earning a 7.5/10. Petti's athleticism and work rate were evident throughout the match. He consistently put his body on the line, making important tackles and disrupting the Lions' attacking plays. His lineout skills were also crucial, providing Argentina with a reliable source of possession. Petti's ability to read the game and anticipate plays allowed him to be in the right place at the right time, making him a valuable asset to the team. While he may not always grab the headlines, his consistent performance and unwavering commitment make him a key player in the Argentine pack. Petti's contributions often go unnoticed, but his value to the team is undeniable.
• Matias Alemanno (Lock): Alemanno added physicality to the Argentine pack, contributing strongly in defense but with limited impact in attack, scoring a 6.5/10. Alemanno's size and strength were valuable in the tight exchanges, and he made several important tackles. However, his involvement in the attacking phases was minimal, and he didn't offer much in terms of carrying or offloading. Alemanno's performance highlights the different roles that locks can play, with some focusing more on physicality and defense, while others contribute more in attack. To improve his rating, Alemanno could focus on developing his ball-handling skills and becoming more of a threat in the loose. His physicality remains a valuable asset, but adding more versatility to his game would make him an even more effective player.
• Pablo Matera (Flanker): Matera was a standout performer, causing problems for the Lions with his aggressive tackling and strong carries, earning a 8.5/10. Matera's intensity and physicality were on full display, as he consistently disrupted the Lions' attacks and made significant gains with his carries. His ability to win turnovers was also crucial, providing Argentina with valuable possession. Matera's leadership and experience were evident throughout the match, inspiring his teammates and setting the tone for the team's performance. He is a player who leads by example, and his impact on the game was undeniable. Matera's performance underscores his importance to the Argentina team, and he remains one of their key players.
• Marcos Kremer (Flanker): Kremer brought energy and physicality to the game, making several important tackles and disrupting the Lions' breakdown, resulting in a 7/10. Kremer's work rate was impressive, as he consistently chased down opponents and put his body on the line. His tackling was particularly effective, and he made several important stops that prevented the Lions from gaining momentum. Kremer's ability to disrupt the breakdown was also valuable, slowing down the Lions' ball and winning crucial penalties for his team. While he may not always be the flashiest player, his contribution to the team's effort is undeniable. Kremer's energy and physicality are valuable assets, and he continues to develop into an important member of the Argentina squad.
• Rodrigo Bruni (Number 8): Bruni made some strong carries but struggled to contain the Lions' powerful runners, resulting in a 6/10. Bruni's size and strength were evident in his carries, but he struggled to make a significant impact on the game. His defensive performance was also inconsistent, and he missed several tackles that allowed the Lions to gain ground. Bruni's performance highlights the challenges of playing against a powerful and well-organized team like the Lions. To improve his rating, he would need to improve his tackling technique and become more effective in containing opposition runners. His potential is evident, but consistency and improved defensive skills are essential for him to become a more impactful player.

Backs

• Gonzalo Bertranou (Scrum-half): Bertranou provided quick service and made some smart decisions, earning a 7/10. Bertranou's speed and accuracy in distributing the ball were crucial for Argentina's attacking plays. He made several smart decisions, choosing the right moments to kick, pass, or run with the ball. Bertranou's ability to control the tempo of the game was also valuable, allowing Argentina to dictate the pace of play. While he may not be the most physically imposing player, his intelligence and skill make him a valuable asset to the team. Bertranou's performance highlights the importance of a good scrum-half in orchestrating a team's attack.
• Nicolas Sanchez (Fly-half): Sanchez controlled the game well with his tactical kicking and accurate passing, scoring a penalty but also missing one conversion, scoring a 7/10. Sanchez's experience and composure were evident throughout the match. His tactical kicking was particularly effective, pinning the Lions back in their own territory and relieving pressure on his own team. His passing was also accurate, creating opportunities for his teammates to attack. However, his missed conversion was a costly error that could have changed the outcome of the game. Sanchez's performance highlights the importance of consistency and accuracy at the fly-half position.
• Matias Orlando (Center): Orlando was solid in defense and made a few good runs, resulting in a 6.5/10. Orlando's physicality and tackling were valuable in containing the Lions' powerful centers. He made several important stops and prevented the Lions from breaking through the Argentine defense. However, his attacking contributions were limited, and he didn't offer much in terms of creativity or flair. Orlando's performance reflects the different roles that centers can play, with some focusing more on defense and physicality, while others contribute more in attack. To improve his rating, Orlando could focus on developing his attacking skills and becoming more of a threat with the ball in hand.
• Jeronimo de la Fuente (Center): De la Fuente made some strong carries and was a threat in attack, earning a 7.5/10. De la Fuente's power and pace were evident in his carries, as he consistently broke through the Lions' defensive line. His ability to create opportunities for his teammates was also valuable, and he made several clever passes that led to attacking chances. De la Fuente's performance highlights the importance of having a dynamic and skillful center in the team. His ability to break tackles and create opportunities makes him a valuable asset to the Argentina squad.
• Bautista Delguy (Wing): Delguy showed flashes of brilliance with his speed and footwork, making one impressive break, resulting in a 7/10. Delguy's pace and agility were on full display, as he consistently beat defenders and made significant gains with his runs. His footwork was also impressive, allowing him to evade tackles and create opportunities for his teammates. Delguy's performance highlights the importance of having a fast and elusive winger in the team. His ability to break tackles and create opportunities makes him a valuable asset to the Argentina squad.
• Santiago Cordero (Wing): Cordero was relatively quiet, failing to make a significant impact on the game, earning a 5.5/10. Cordero's lack of involvement in the game was disappointing, as he failed to make any significant contributions in either attack or defense. He didn't have many opportunities to run with the ball, and his defensive performance was also lacking. Cordero's performance highlights the importance of wingers being involved in all aspects of the game. To improve his rating, he would need to become more proactive in seeking opportunities and making an impact on the match.
• Juan Cruz Mallia (Fullback): Mallia was solid under the high ball and made some good tackles, but didn't offer much in attack, resulting in a 6/10. Mallia's aerial skills were valuable in dealing with the Lions' tactical kicking. He consistently caught the high ball and made good decisions in returning the kicks. His tackling was also solid, preventing the Lions from gaining ground. However, his attacking contributions were limited, and he didn't offer much in terms of creativity or flair. Mallia's performance reflects the different roles that fullbacks can play, with some focusing more on defense and aerial skills, while others contribute more in attack. To improve his rating, Mallia could focus on developing his attacking skills and becoming more of a threat with the ball in hand.

Lions Player Ratings

The Lions delivered a dominant performance, showcasing their strength and skill across the board. Here’s a breakdown of their individual player ratings:

Forwards

• Wyn Jones (Prop): Jones was solid in the scrum and contributed with some strong carries, earning a 7/10. Wyn Jones anchored the Lions' scrum effectively, providing a stable platform for their attacks. His work rate was commendable, contributing to both defensive and offensive phases. Jones made several important tackles and showed good physicality around the field. However, his impact in open play could have been more significant. Jones' performance highlighted the importance of a strong foundation in the forwards, setting the tone for the rest of the team. Improvement in his carrying and offloading skills could further elevate his game.
• Luke Cowan-Dickie (Hooker): Cowan-Dickie was accurate with his lineouts and made some powerful runs, resulting in a 7.5/10. Cowan-Dickie's lineout accuracy was crucial for the Lions, providing a reliable source of possession. His dynamic play around the field added an extra dimension to their attack. Cowan-Dickie's ability to break tackles and gain valuable meters made him a constant threat. His defensive work rate was also impressive, contributing to the Lions' overall dominance. Cowan-Dickie's performance showcased his versatility and importance to the team.
• Tadhg Furlong (Prop): Furlong was dominant in the scrum and made several impressive carries, earning a 8/10. Tadhg Furlong's scrummaging prowess was on full display, consistently putting pressure on the Argentine pack. His ability to win penalties at the scrum was a significant advantage for the Lions. Furlong's impact extended beyond the set-piece, as he also made several powerful runs and contributed to the team's attacking efforts. His performance underscored his status as one of the premier tighthead props in the world.
• Maro Itoje (Lock): Itoje was a standout performer, disrupting the Argentine attack and making several key turnovers, earning a 9/10. Maro Itoje's athleticism and intelligence were evident throughout the match. He consistently disrupted the Argentine attack, making crucial tackles and turnovers. His ability to read the game and anticipate plays allowed him to be in the right place at the right time. Itoje's leadership and intensity inspired his teammates, making him a central figure in the Lions' dominant performance. His performance solidified his reputation as one of the world's best locks.
• Alun Wyn Jones (Lock): Jones led the team with his usual authority and made several important tackles, resulting in a 7.5/10. Alun Wyn Jones' leadership and experience were invaluable to the Lions. He organized the defense effectively and made several important tackles. His presence on the field provided a calming influence, guiding the team through challenging moments. Jones' performance demonstrated his enduring quality and importance to the Lions' squad.
• Courtney Lawes (Flanker): Lawes was a force in defense and made some powerful carries, earning a 8/10. Courtney Lawes' physicality and athleticism were on full display. He consistently disrupted the Argentine attack, making several dominant tackles. His ability to win turnovers was also crucial, providing the Lions with valuable possession. Lawes' performance highlighted his versatility and importance to the team.
• Tom Curry (Flanker): Curry was relentless in his work rate and made several key tackles, resulting in a 7.5/10. Tom Curry's energy and commitment were evident throughout the match. He consistently chased down opponents and put his body on the line. His tackling was particularly effective, and he made several important stops that prevented Argentina from gaining momentum. Curry's performance underscored his value as a tireless workhorse in the pack.
• Taulupe Faletau (Number 8): Faletau was solid in both attack and defense, providing a link between the forwards and backs, earning a 7/10. Taulupe Faletau's versatility and skill were on full display. He made several strong carries and contributed to the team's attacking efforts. His defensive work rate was also impressive, making important tackles and contributing to the Lions' overall dominance. Faletau's performance demonstrated his importance to the team as a reliable and consistent performer.

Backs

• Conor Murray (Scrum-half): Murray controlled the game well with his accurate passing and tactical kicking, earning a 7.5/10. Conor Murray's experience and composure were evident throughout the match. His accurate passing and tactical kicking were crucial in controlling the game's tempo. He made several smart decisions, choosing the right moments to kick, pass, or run with the ball. Murray's performance underscored his value as a seasoned campaigner.
• Dan Biggar (Fly-half): Biggar directed the attack effectively and kicked his goals, scoring a 8/10. Dan Biggar's game management and kicking accuracy were crucial to the Lions' success. He directed the attack effectively, making good decisions and putting his teammates in advantageous positions. His goal-kicking was also impeccable, adding valuable points to the scoreboard. Biggar's performance highlighted his importance as a reliable and composed fly-half.
• Robbie Henshaw (Center): Henshaw was strong in defense and made some powerful runs, resulting in a 7.5/10. Robbie Henshaw's physicality and skill were on full display. He consistently broke through the Argentine defense, making significant gains with his carries. His defensive work rate was also impressive, making important tackles and contributing to the Lions' overall dominance. Henshaw's performance showcased his versatility and importance to the team.
• Bundee Aki (Center): Aki added physicality to the Lions' midfield and made some hard tackles, earning a 7/10. Bundee Aki's physicality and aggression were valuable in the midfield. He consistently put pressure on the Argentine centers, making hard tackles and disrupting their attacking plays. Aki's performance underscored his value as a powerful and uncompromising player.
• Josh Adams (Wing): Adams was a constant threat with his pace and scored a try, earning a 8.5/10. Josh Adams' speed and finishing ability were on full display. He consistently beat defenders and created scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates. His try was a testament to his pace and skill. Adams' performance highlighted his importance as a dangerous attacking weapon.
• Duhan van der Merwe (Wing): Van der Merwe made some strong runs and was difficult to contain, resulting in a 7.5/10. Duhan van der Merwe's power and pace were evident in his carries. He consistently broke through the Argentine defense, making significant gains with his runs. His ability to break tackles and create opportunities for his teammates was also valuable. Van der Merwe's performance underscored his value as a dynamic and impactful winger.
• Stuart Hogg (Fullback): Hogg was solid under the high ball and made some good runs, earning a 7/10. Stuart Hogg's aerial skills and running ability were valuable to the Lions. He consistently caught the high ball and made good decisions in returning the kicks. His attacking runs were also effective, creating opportunities for his teammates. Hogg's performance highlighted his importance as a reliable and versatile fullback.

Key Takeaways

• Argentina showed resilience but ultimately couldn't match the Lions' physicality and precision.
• The Lions' forwards dominated the set-piece and breakdown, providing a solid platform for their backs.
• Individual brilliance from players like Maro Itoje and Josh Adams proved to be game-changing.
• Argentina needs to improve their consistency and physicality to compete with top-tier teams like the Lions.

This match provided valuable insights into both teams' strengths and weaknesses. Argentina will need to address their shortcomings to become more competitive, while the Lions can build on this performance as they continue their tour.