All Blacks coach Scott Robertson reacts to New Zealand's World Number One Ranking

The result, combined with Australia’s 38-22 comeback triumph over South Africa in Johannesburg, sees New Zealand back at the summit for the first time since their dominant spell between 2011 and 2020. Speaking to the All Blacks media after the match, Robertson said the achievement was another reminder of how fine the margins are in Test rugby.

“It just shows you how tough Test footy is, how close it is, and the margins. Argentina were great for a lot of the match. They defended well, they're passionate, just like the Springboks were too. And then, it can turn on a moment, a discipline, a card, great play, two or three tries back-to-back, can turn Test matches.

"We're pleased we're No1, but our sights will be set on next week's match than the rankings.”

According to New Zealand Rugby, Robertson also highlighted the atmosphere in Córdoba and admitted that his side had lost their discipline after building a 31-10 lead at half-time.

“It had a bit of everything, but we're pleased. There were a lot of [pleasing] efforts we can look back on. In a lot of areas, we have to improve, but it was a tough Test.

We created a lot of pressure and opportunities through holding the ball for long periods, and our skill set was good.

We didn't get the possession in the second half and we went to our lineout and maul, which was very powerful. So it was pleasing that we could play two different styles and find a way, especially at the back end of Test matches where we know they are won or lost.”

Argentina, meanwhile, showed plenty of ambition with their tactical kicking game, turning the All Blacks with clever grubbers and enjoying some fortunate bounces in attack. Robertson acknowledged the hosts as a “smart team” that kept his side under pressure for long spells.

Captain Scott Barrett praised the passion of the Córdoba crowd, describing the stadium as one of the most intense environments he has played in.

“The fans, particularly in that second half, got behind their team. It shows the passion of the local fans.”

Barrett did, however, voice concern about the penalty count that swung momentum in Argentina’s favour after the break.

“It's about playing territory and they won the battle off the back of those penalties. We'll make some adjustments to our self-discipline and we want to be cleaner so we have more ball in the right areas of the field.”

For Robertson, the immediate focus is not on rankings, but on tightening up areas that slipped in the second half. Yet the significance of the win — restoring New Zealand to the top of the rugby world — will not have been lost on the squad as they prepare for their next challenge.