The Rugby Championship opened with fireworks as both Australia and New Zealand pulled off statement wins on foreign soil.
For the Wallabies, it was a comeback that will be remembered for generations.
For the All Blacks, it was a performance that proved their depth and ability to respond under pressure.
Wallabies Pull Off a Historic Comeback
At Ellis Park in Johannesburg, Australia stunned the reigning world champions with what many are already calling their finest comeback in the professional era.
The Wallabies looked completely out of their depth early on, trailing 22-0 inside 18 minutes as the Springboks dominated with power and precision.
But instead of crumbling, the Australians rallied in spectacular fashion.
From that moment on, they scored 38 unanswered points to seal a 38-22 victory—their first win in South Africa in more than a decade, and their first at Ellis Park in 62 years.
Heroes of the Turnaround
Harry Wilson crossed for two tries in a standout performance, while flanker Fraser McReight was immense at the breakdown, winning key turnovers and earning player of the match honors.
The comeback began with Dylan Pietsch touching down after slick interplay, before prop Angus Bell and Wilson combined to further close the gap.
The turning point came when Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii intercepted a pass and sprinted 60 metres, reducing the deficit to just three points.
From there, the Wallabies’ confidence only grew.
Tom Wright set up Wilson for his second try to give Australia the lead, and Max Jorgensen added another with a dazzling step.
Wright then sealed the win in the closing stages, capitalizing on a Springboks error.
The victory did come at a cost, with Wilson limping off and Pietsch shaken after a heavy collision with Siya Kolisi.
Still, it was a result that will go down in Wallabies history.
All Blacks Overcome Stubborn Argentina
Meanwhile in Córdoba, New Zealand also delivered a strong statement.
The All Blacks defeated Argentina 41-24, a scoreline that looks comfortable but masks a nervy third quarter when Los Pumas pushed hard.
New Zealand had raced to a 31-10 halftime lead, but Argentina fought back bravely, closing the gap to 24-31 thanks to tries from Pablo Matera, Marcos Kremer, and Julian Montoya, with Tomas Albornoz steering the attack and scoring himself.
For a moment, it looked like an upset might be brewing. But once the All Blacks settled, they showed their class.
Hooker Samisoni Taukei’aho powered over for two late tries from mauls to end Argentina’s hopes, while Sevu Reece and Cortez Ratima added to the tally in a display of attacking sharpness.
Standout Performers in Black
Ardie Savea was everywhere in the loose, winning key turnovers and driving the team forward.
Tupou Vaa’i impressed in the lineouts, alongside Fabian Holland and Patrick Tuipulotu, while Beauden Barrett controlled the kicking game despite Argentina’s pressure.
Although consistency still seemed elusive at times, New Zealand proved that when they click, their skill level is simply too much for Argentina to handle.
What Comes Next
The Rugby Championship table is already looking intriguing after the opening round.
Australia’s stunning win over South Africa and New Zealand’s strong finish against Argentina have set the stage for more drama in Round 2.
Next weekend, the Springboks will look to bounce back against the Wallabies in Cape Town, while Los Pumas will try again to upset the All Blacks in Buenos Aires.
With South Africa desperate to defend their title and Australia showing new-found resilience, the competition promises fireworks all the way through.
