Scotland’s chaotic win in Cordoba has delivered more than a strong Nations Championship start. It is set to push Gregor Townsend’s side back to fifth in the men’s world rankings before next weekend’s South Africa test.
RugbyPass reported that Scotland’s 47-38 victory over Argentina will lift them two places, leapfrogging both the Pumas and England once the latest World Rugby table is confirmed. The projected rise matches Scotland’s all-time rankings high and gives Townsend’s squad a sharper frame than the scoreline alone.
Why the rankings jump matters
Scotland scored seven tries at Estadio Mario Alberto Kempes, with Sione Tuipulotu, Pierre Schoeman, Rory Hutchinson, Gregor Brown, Scott Cummings, Gregor Hiddleston and Kyle Rowe all crossing. That spread of scorers matters for a side still building proof away from Murrayfield.
The win also backs up the pre-match warning that Scotland’s Cordoba opener would carry ranking consequences. Argentina started the weekend above them, but Scotland’s highest-ever score against the Pumas in Argentina has flipped that table pressure immediately.
Townsend now takes a top-five platform into Pretoria. South Africa remain the benchmark, but Scotland’s ranking surge changes the tone: this is no longer just a recovery tour. It is a live test of whether their attack can travel against the world champions.
