Uruguay suffers historic home defeat to unranked Hong Kong

Uruguay, a Tier Two rugby nation, suffered a significant upset at home, losing 42-40 to Hong Kong, a team considered Tier Three, in Montevideo. This result, only the second test match ever between the two sides, marks one of Hong Kong's greatest victories while representing a humbling defeat for Los Teros. Uruguay were humiliated on Saturday in Montevideo by the visitor.

The match was framed as the South America 2 vs. Asia 2 battle, with both teams slated to compete at Rugby World Cup 2027 in Australia.

Early Teros momentum fades

Los Teros appeared to open strongly; hooker Joaquín Myszka scored from a rolling maul in the opening minute, though TMO intervention disallowed it. He quickly redeemed himself, scoring minutes later from a similar setup after Uruguay kicked for the corner from a penalty. Myszka’s try stood this time after an earlier non-try call.

Hong Kong responded on the 15-minute mark with Paul Altier slotting a penalty. They then took the lead with a gift try from a poor Uruguayan lineout, allowing Alexander Post to score, followed by another Altier penalty, establishing a 13-5 advantage by the 24th minute.

Uruguay surged back with three rapid tries. Myszka completed his hat-trick in the 29th minute, and Manuel Diana added another, highlighting a period of cohesive play for Los Teros.

Hong Kong capitalizes on Uruguayan errors

Juan Manuel Alonso opened the second half with a try for Uruguay, but a series of unforced errors allowed Hong Kong to regain control. Matthew Worley capitalized on a kick through that three Teros players watched and Brendon Nell scored after Uruguay incorrectly assumed a penalty for not releasing, finding a clear path to the try line.

A controversial penalty try further compounded Uruguay's woes in the final quarter. Craig Evans, the referee, yellow-carded Joaquín Myszka for a side entry, awarding Hong Kong seven points and the lead. This moment proved pivotal in the match's outcome.

Last-gasp penalty seals upset

Despite the setbacks, Uruguay fought back, with Francisco González Capdevila scoring in the left corner after consecutive penalties and an extensive forward effort. Jean Cotarmanac’h's conversion briefly put Uruguay ahead.

However, the lead was short-lived. Alfonso Vidal conceded a penalty directly from the ensuing kickoff, allowing Paul Altier to slot a long-range kick that secured the 42-40 victory for Hong Kong. This result will feature in any discussion of upcoming rugby fixtures and results and for historical context on how Uruguay's international campaign has progressed, such as when Uruguay faces Georgia in historic Montevideo Nations.