Argentina, known for its passion for rugby, has produced a host of exceptional backs who have made their mark on the international stage. From crafty scrum-halves to swashbuckling fly-halves and elusive fullbacks, these Argentinian rugby legends have left an indelible mark on the sport. In this article, we’ll delve into the careers of the 10 best Argentinian rugby backs of all time, exploring their career stats, physical attributes, best career moments, and what made them truly special.
1. Felipe Contepomi (Fly-half)
Career Stats: Felipe Contepomi, a visionary fly-half, earned 87 caps for Argentina between 1998 and 2013. He was a key figure in the Pumas’ rise to prominence on the international stage.
Physical Stats: Contepomi stood at 6 feet 1 inch (1.85 meters) and weighed around 15 stone (95 kilograms). His size and physicality for a fly-half allowed him to take on defenders and set up attacking plays.
Best Career Moment: Contepomi’s best career moment came during the 2007 Rugby World Cup when he played a crucial role in Argentina’s historic third-place finish, including a memorable performance against France in the semifinal.
What Made Him Special: Contepomi’s ability to read the game, distribute accurately, and take on defenders made him a standout fly-half. He was a leader on the field and a linchpin of the Pumas’ backline.
2. Juan Martín Hernández (Fullback/Fly-half)
Career Stats: Juan Martín Hernández, a versatile back, earned 74 caps for Argentina between 2003 and 2019. He was known for his versatility, switching seamlessly between fullback and fly-half.
Physical Stats: Hernández stood at 6 feet (1.83 meters) and weighed around 14 stone (89 kilograms). His agility, vision, and strong boot made him a complete back.
Best Career Moment: Hernández’s best career moment came during the 2007 Rugby World Cup, where he played a pivotal role in Argentina’s historic third-place finish. His performance against France in the semifinal was particularly memorable.
What Made Him Special: Hernández’s versatility, tactical acumen, and creativity set him apart. His ability to slot into multiple positions and create try-scoring opportunities made him a maestro in the backline.
3. Agustín Pichot (Scrum-half)
Career Stats: Agustín Pichot, a fiery scrum-half, earned 71 caps for Argentina between 1995 and 2007. He was a driving force behind the Pumas’ resurgence in world rugby.
Physical Stats: Pichot stood at 5 feet 9 inches (1.75 meters) and weighed around 12 stone (76 kilograms). His speed, tenacity, and vocal leadership made him a standout scrum-half.
Best Career Moment: Pichot’s best career moment came during the 2007 Rugby World Cup, where he captained Argentina to a historic third-place finish. His leadership and determination were crucial to the team’s success.
What Made Him Special: Pichot’s passion, quick delivery, and ability to rally his teammates made him a special scrum-half. He was the heart and soul of the Pumas during his tenure.
4. Gonzalo Quesada (Fly-half)
Career Stats: Gonzalo Quesada, a skilled fly-half, earned 38 caps for Argentina between 1996 and 2003. He was known for his tactical kicking and precision under pressure.
Physical Stats: Quesada stood at 5 feet 10 inches (1.78 meters) and weighed around 14 stone (89 kilograms). His composure and ability to control the game were his hallmarks.
Best Career Moment: Quesada’s best career moment came during the 1999 Rugby World Cup, where he was the top point-scorer and played a crucial role in Argentina’s run to the quarterfinals.
What Made Him Special: Quesada’s accurate goal kicking, tactical nous, and ability to orchestrate the backline made him a key figure in Argentina’s rugby resurgence.
5. Martín Gaitán (Center)
Career Stats: Martín Gaitán, a dynamic center, earned 61 caps for Argentina between 1996 and 2006. He was known for his strong ball-carrying and ability to break the gain line.
Physical Stats: Gaitán stood at 5 feet 11 inches (1.80 meters) and weighed around 15 stone (95 kilograms). His power and agility made him a formidable presence in midfield.
Best Career Moment: Gaitán’s best career moment came during Argentina’s successful 1999 Rugby World Cup campaign, where his performances in the center were crucial to the team’s success.
What Made Him Special: Gaitán’s ability to create space, offload in contact, and make crunching tackles made him a standout center. He was a key playmaker in the Pumas’ backline.
6. Ignacio Corleto (Fullback)
Career Stats: Ignacio Corleto, an agile fullback, earned 46 caps for Argentina between 1998 and 2007. He was known for his speed, safe hands, and ability to counter-attack from deep.
Physical Stats: Corleto stood at 5 feet 11 inches (1.80 meters) and weighed around 13 stone (82 kilograms). His ability to read the game and join the attacking line made him a dangerous presence.
Best Career Moment: Corleto’s best career moment came during the 2007 Rugby World Cup, where his counter-attacking brilliance and defensive solidity were instrumental in Argentina’s historic third-place finish.
What Made Him Special: Corleto’s ability to turn defense into attack, read the opposition’s kicking game, and make crucial tackles made him a reliable and dynamic fullback.
7. Horacio Agulla (Wing/Center)
Career Stats: Horacio Agulla, a versatile back, earned 63 caps for Argentina between 2005 and 2016. He was known for his versatility, playing effectively on the wing and in the center.
Physical Stats: Agulla stood at 6 feet (1.83 meters) and weighed around 14 stone (89 kilograms). His size, speed, and work rate made him a valuable asset in the backline.
Best Career Moment: Agulla’s best career moment came during the 2007 Rugby World Cup, where he played a pivotal role in Argentina’s historic third-place finish, showcasing his versatility.
What Made Him Special: Agulla’s adaptability, finishing ability, and defensive skills made him a valuable asset to the Pumas. He could excel in multiple positions.
8. Nicolás Sánchez (Fly-half)
Career Stats: Nicolás Sánchez, a crafty fly-half, has earned over 90 caps for Argentina since his debut in 2010. He continues to be a key figure in the Pumas’ backline.
Physical Stats: Sánchez stands at 6 feet (1.83 meters) and weighs around 14 stone (89 kilograms). His vision, kicking prowess, and game management have made him a reliable playmaker.
Best Career Moment: Sánchez has several standout moments, but leading Argentina to a historic victory over New Zealand in the 2020 Tri-Nations Championship was a career-defining achievement.
What Made Him Special: Sánchez’s game management, goal kicking, and ability to create try-scoring opportunities for his teammates make him a modern-day playmaker for Argentina.
9. Marcelo Loffreda (Center/Fly-half)
Career Stats: Marcelo Loffreda, a versatile back, earned 29 caps for Argentina between 1974 and 1981. He was known for his playmaking skills and rugby intelligence.
Physical Stats: Loffreda stood at 5 feet 9 inches (1.75 meters) and weighed around 13 stone (82 kilograms). His agility and ability to read the game made him a key figure in the Pumas’ backline.
Best Career Moment: Loffreda’s best career moments came during his time as captain, leading Argentina to historic victories over France and England in 1976.
What Made Him Special: Loffreda’s rugby IQ, decision-making, and playmaking abilities made him a respected figure in Argentinian rugby history. He was a leader on and off the field.
10. Juan Imhoff (Wing)
Career Stats: Juan Imhoff, an agile winger, has earned over 30 caps for Argentina since his debut in 2009. He is known for his speed and try-scoring ability.
Physical Stats: Imhoff stands at 6 feet 1 inch (1.85 meters) and weighs around 14 stone (89 kilograms). His finishing ability and elusiveness in open play make him a potent attacking threat.
Best Career Moment: Imhoff’s best career moment came during the 2015 Rugby World Cup, where he was Argentina’s top try-scorer in the tournament, helping the team reach the semifinals.
What Made Him Special: Imhoff’s finishing ability, speed, and agility have made him a standout winger for Argentina. He continues to be a key figure in the Pumas’ backline.
Conclusion: The Pumas’ Backline Legacy
These 10 Argentinian rugby backs have left an indelible mark on the sport, representing their country with distinction and contributing significantly to its rich rugby history. Their remarkable careers, physical attributes, and unforgettable moments on the field have solidified their places as some of the greatest rugby backs to don the blue and white jersey. As rugby enthusiasts, we can only look back with admiration and gratitude for the enduring legacy they have created in Argentinian rugby.