Estadio José Amalfitani

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Lore & Background

While often associated with football, the Estadio José Amalfitani became a critical sanctuary for Argentina's rugby union team starting in 1986. The national side moved here from Ferro Carril Oeste Stadium to secure higher capacity venues, establishing it as their primary base for major encounters. The stadium gained legendary status when hosting high-stakes tests against global powerhouses; notably, the team faced a formidable New Zealand All Blacks squad that narrowly survived an Argentine assault in the final minutes to win 25–19. In November 2005, the Pumas took a 20–16 lead into halftime against South Africa before eventually losing 34–23. The venue also hosted Argentina's largest ever victory over Wales during the 2006 mid-year tests, a decisive 45–27 win that showcased the team's potency on home soil.

In Their Own Story

The history of this ground is marked by resilience and transformation. Built between 1941 and 1943 on difficult swampy terrain along the Maldonado Stream, it was inaugurated in April 1943 with a friendly match against River Plate that ended in a 2–2 draw. The first goal in its history was scored by Vélez striker Juan José Ferraro. The venue underwent significant renovation and enlargement specifically to prepare for the 1978 FIFA World Cup, adding press boxes and upper stand sections. A defining moment in its technical evolution occurred when it installed a modern lighting system by Siemens in 1969; although the source notes an earlier claim of a 1928 installation, the text confirms the specific 1969 inauguration was in a match against Brazilian Santos FC. This infrastructure allowed the stadium to host international concerts and major sporting events well into the 21st century.

Reader's Guide

For visitors attending Argentina national team matches or rugby fixtures at El Fortín de Liniers, accessibility is a key feature. The stadium is situated directly near the Liniers railway station, making it easy to reach via public transport from other parts of Buenos Aires. Fans should be aware that while the venue holds 49,540 spectators, it does not provide seating for all of them, so standing room is a common experience in many sections. The atmosphere is intense, particularly during test matches against top-tier opponents like the All Blacks or South Africa, where the proximity of the crowd to the pitch amplifies every play. When planning a visit, note that the venue has hosted major events ranging from World Cup group stages to concerts by international acts like Queen in 1981, reflecting its versatility as a multi-purpose facility.

Did You Know?

• The stadium was built on a swamp of the Maldonado Stream between 1941 and 1943.
• It hosted three games in the group stages of the 1978 FIFA World Cup after being refurbished for the event.
• The Argentina national rugby union team moved here from Ferro Carril Oeste Stadium in 1986 to find higher capacity venues.
• Vélez Sarsfield's first goal at this stadium was scored by Juan José Ferraro during a 2–2 draw with River Plate in April 1943.
• The venue hosted the Jaguares, an Argentine Super Rugby franchise, for home games from 2016 to 2020.