Keenan hat-trick leads Ireland past Argentina as injuries concern Farrell

Hugo Keenan scored a hat-trick as Ireland defeated Argentina 42–12 in Dublin on Friday to begin their November Nations Championship programme with a six-try victory. According to BBC Sport, Dan Sheehan, Sam Prendergast and Ronan Kelleher also scored for the hosts, who recovered after an early try from Argentina wing Mateo Carreras to finish 30 points clear.

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Keenan's first try came from a move involving both wings: Robert Baloucoune broke into space and passed to Mack Hansen, who supplied the full-back. It helped Ireland turn the contest around and began a memorable evening for Keenan in his first home appearance since the 2025 Six Nations. Head coach Andy Farrell praised the pace and attacking threat provided by all three members of his back three.

The result nevertheless left Farrell wanting greater efficiency from his team. Ireland enjoyed 59% of the territory and a narrow advantage in possession, but did not add to their score after Kelleher finished a rolling maul in the 55th minute. In comments reported by the BBC, Farrell welcomed the margin against a dangerous Argentina side while saying Ireland had missed opportunities to make their territorial dominance count more fully.

Several fitness issues complicated the evening. Captain Sheehan left in the first half after failing a head injury assessment; Farrell subsequently said he appeared fine in the dressing room. Baloucoune also went off with a knock, Sean Jansen sustained a blow to his knee, and Josh van der Flier and Hansen had ankle concerns. Hansen continued after treatment. The report did not establish how those issues would affect availability for Ireland's next match.

Tadhg Beirne said Ireland had absorbed Argentina's strong opening before establishing their own game. He highlighted the collective work behind several tries, but shared Farrell's frustration that later territory and scoring chances had not produced more points. His assessment echoed the coach's view that the convincing scoreline still left room for improvement.

Ireland next host Fiji in Dublin on 14 November, with South Africa to follow before the finals weekend in London. Farrell must assess his squad after the opener, while also considering his selection options. He said the performances had increased competition for places during the remainder of the international window.