England rugby star trolls Argentina with brutal Enzo Fernandez-inspired celebration

Sunday, 19 July 2026 at 18:05

byRugby Rucker

Ellis Genge could not resist aiming a cheeky dig at Argentina after England’s rugby stars succeeded where their footballing counterparts had failed.

Steve Borthwick’s side secured a dramatic 31-24 victory over the Pumas in Santiago del Estero, just three days after England were knocked out of the 2026 FIFA World Cup by Argentina.

However, it was Genge’s celebration following England’s dominant scrum that caught the attention of eagle-eyed supporters.

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Genge mocks Argentina

The loosehead prop appeared to recreate the celebration used by Argentina midfielder Enzo Fernandez following his goal against England in the World Cup semi-final.

Genge placed his hands beneath his chin and smiled towards the crowd after England’s pack drove the hosts backwards, with the moment quickly being shared across social media.

It was a cheeky response after Argentina had worn replica shirts inspired by Diego Maradona’s iconic 1986 World Cup kit during the Nations Championship clash.

Ellis Genge ? https://t.co/MCpkcDOuzv pic.twitter.com/T1KpemlZLi

— Ben (@pitchside_bp) July 18, 2026

England survive dramatic comeback

England made a dream start as Tommy Freeman crossed after only three minutes before Ben Earl scored twice to give the visitors a commanding 19-3 half-time advantage.

Argentina responded strongly after the restart, with Mateo Carreras touching down before a penalty try helped reduce the deficit as England temporarily dropped to 13 players.

Marcus Smith and Immanuel Feyi-Waboso then scored in quick succession to restore England’s advantage and silence the home crowd.

Justo Piccardo grabbed a late try for Argentina before Bautista Delguy appeared to score again deep into added time.

However, the effort was ruled out after Henry Slade’s last-ditch tackle forced Delguy to ground the ball on the touchline, allowing England to hold on for a memorable victory.

Nations Championship standings

The result leaves England third in the Northern Hemisphere standings at the end of their summer schedule, two points behind leaders France.

Argentina, meanwhile, sit fourth in the Southern Hemisphere table after recording one victory and two defeats from their opening three matches.

Five rugby stars who didn't play a single minute of the Nations Championship

Whether through injury or selection, these five international stars are yet to play a single minute of this summer's Nations Championship despite all being included in their nation's plans.

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Beauden Barrett (New Zealand)

The biggest selection surprise of the tournament so far.

Despite travelling with the All Blacks and being fully available, the two-time World Rugby Player of the Year has yet to feature in any of New Zealand's three Nations Championship matches.

Head coach Dave Rennie has instead placed his faith in Damian McKenzie and Rivez Reihana, leaving one of the game's greatest players still waiting for his first appearance.

Off the Pitch: Barrett grew up on his family's dairy farm in Taranaki with seven siblings. Three of the Barrett brothers – Beauden, Scott and Jordie – have all represented the All Blacks.

George Ford (England)

Ford travelled to South America hoping to add to his impressive England tally but was forced to watch from the sidelines throughout England's campaign.

With Fin Smith firmly establishing himself as Steve Borthwick's first-choice fly-half, the experienced playmaker never got the opportunity to add to his 102 England caps.

Whether that changes during the Autumn Nations Series remains to be seen.

Off the Pitch: Ford's wife, Atdhetare Hoxha, fled Kosovo with her family as a four-year-old before settling in Greater Manchester. The couple have a daughter together, and Ford has spoken about how visiting Kosovo gave him a fresh perspective on life away from rugby.

Siya Kolisi (South Africa)

Kolisi was initially named to captain the Springboks against England before injury cruelly denied him the chance to lead his side.

The double World Cup-winning skipper has remained with the squad but is still waiting to make his first Nations Championship appearance this summer.

South Africa have coped impressively without their inspirational captain, but Rassie Erasmus will be hoping to have him back before the tournament concludes.

Off the Pitch: Away from rugby, Kolisi is passionate about giving back. Through the Kolisi Foundation, he helps support education, food security and youth development projects across South Africa.

Eben Etzebeth (South Africa)

Like Kolisi, Etzebeth was part of South Africa's plans before concussion ruled him out.

The most-capped Springbok in history is still yet to play a minute this summer, although the world champions have shown remarkable depth in his absence.

His return later in the tournament would be a huge boost as South Africa look to maintain their momentum.

Off the Pitch: Etzebeth is married to actress and singer Anlia Etzebeth. The pair are keen outdoor enthusiasts and regularly spend time fishing whenever rugby commitments allow.

George Furbank (England)

Furbank's Nations Championship campaign was derailed before it even began.

The Northampton Saints full-back was expected to play a key role for England before appendicitis forced him to withdraw from the tour.

His absence opened the door for Marcus Smith to spend extended periods at full-back as England finished their campaign with two wins from three.

Off the Pitch: Before committing fully to rugby, Furbank was a talented cricketer and was on Leicestershire's books until under-16 level. He only switched his full focus to rugby after joining Bedford School for sixth form.

Five rugby stars who didn't play a single minute of the Nations Championship

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