Full Breakdown
Argentina Coach Walks Out After England Victory, Citing Disrespect
7/19/2026, 8:25:36 PM
Match Summary and Controversial Moments
On 27 July 2024, England defeated Argentina 31-24 in a Nations Championship test at Santiago del Estero. England built a 19-3 halftime lead before the Pumas rallied in the second half. The match ended in overtime when Argentina’s Bautista Delguy crossed in the third minute, only for television match official Brett Cronan to rule the try out because the ball was grounded on the sideline after a tackle by Henry Slade. England finished the game despite four players—Jack van Poortvliet, Alex Coles, Henry Pollock and Emmanuel Iyogun—serving nine minutes in the sin-bin, raising their total of yellow cards in the last eight Tests to 14.
Felipe Contepomi’s Protest
Argentina head coach Felipe Contepomi left the post-match press conference, accusing England of a “lack of respect”. He had asked the England representative present to stop the music and cheering emanating from the English changing room after their tour celebration, then walked out when the noise continued.
England’s Official Response
England coach Steve Borthwick praised his side’s performance, saying they showed “incredible spirit, led brilliantly by Jamie George”. He dismissed criticism of the team’s discipline, stating, “I don’t think now is the time to be digging into that,” and highlighted the players’ resilience after playing with 13 men for part of the match.
Criticism & Opposition
Former England scrum-half Matt Dawson, commenting on the four yellow cards, described the team’s discipline as “verging on comical”, underscoring the controversy surrounding England’s conduct in the latter stages of the game.
Verbatim Quotes
- “lack of respect” — Felipe Contepomi, Argentina head coach
- “verging on comical” — Matt Dawson, former England scrum-half
- “Borthwick said: “I don’t think now is the time to be digging into that.” — Steve Borthwick, England head coach
