Regardless of the outcome of this Rugby World Cup, it has made its mark on history after the first game, when the Pumas from Argentina beat France 17-12 at the Stade de France.

Those who feared France may suffer from nerves proved smarter than those, like me, who felt that the defence of home ground would propel Les Bleus past a very talented and motivated Argentine XV.

Argentina played an inspired defence throughout, proving their dedication to tackles even when French he-man Sebastien Chabal came on for the last 20 minutes. On offence, Argentina counted on French mistakes, relying almost exclusively on high balls from fly-half Juan Martin Hernandez to put pressure on the French back line. Despite missing four drop-goal attempts, man-of-the-match Felipe Contepomi was the difference for the Pumas.

'For most of the match, it seemed as though the French were waiting for something to happen, rather than make it happen themselves'

In addition to his four penalty kicks, Contepomi led his teammates by making critical tackles, charging down several French kicks, and breaking through the French defence. The lone try of the match came in the 27th minute, after Argentina intercepted a poor pass from French flanker Remy Martin and linked up to put full-back Ignacio Corleto into the corner.

France had the skill to win, and they certainly had plenty of opportunities to cross the try line, but consistent dropped balls and poor execution with man-advantages out wide let Argentina hold on the lead throughout the match. The French forward pack certainly had control over scrums and breakdowns, executing several long rolling mauls that chewed up Argentine territory and energy. But the French couldn’t finish.

In the second half, France came out with considerably more fire in the bellies, but after failing to capitalize on numerous pick-and-go thrusts within Argentina’s 5m line, French spirits sagged. For most of the match, it seemed as though the French were waiting for something to happen, rather than make it happen themselves.