La Natividad triumphed over La Dolfina in a thrilling 13-11 showdown on Sunday, securing their third Argentine Polo Open title. Led by the Castagnola brothers, the team delivered an exceptional performance at the sport’s most prestigious tournament, marking a repeat of last year’s final.
This match promised to be a spectacle of the highest caliber, featuring only the second 80-goal handicap final since La Dolfina’s victory over Ellerstina in 2009. In polo, players are rated on a scale of zero to 10 goals by an expert panel, with 10 representing the pinnacle of skill. All eight of the current 10-goal male players under the Argentine Polo Association were on display in this highly anticipated clash.
La Dolfina initially dominated, taking the lead from the opening chukker. Determined to avoid a repeat of last year’s outcome, where they faltered late and allowed La Natividad to snatch victory, they controlled the early scoreboard. However, missed opportunities to capitalize on crucial plays left them vulnerable.
As the second half unfolded, La Natividad gained momentum. They displayed greater composure, avoiding distractions and focusing on their strengths. The game remained tightly contested until La Natividad unleashed an extraordinary six-chukker performance. A stunning run of seven consecutive goals flipped the game from a 4-6 deficit to an 11-6 advantage.
From that moment, La Natividad took command of the match, leaving no room for La Dolfina to recover. While the final scoreline of 13-11 suggests a close contest, La Natividad’s control was evident, with the last goal coming in the final seconds.
“Winning in Palermo is an unbelievable feeling,” said Camilo Castagnola after the match. “This is what we work toward all year. I can’t quite process it yet. We’ve been building toward this moment season by season, and I owe it to my incredible teammates.” Castagnola emphasized that staying within striking distance in the first half was critical to their second-half resurgence.
Adolfo Cambiaso, La Dolfina’s founder and legendary player, echoed this sentiment in his analysis: “We had a strong first half but missed too many chances. We took too many shots, and that cost us. They dominated the fifth and sixth chukkers—that’s where they beat us.”
At 49, Cambiaso, an 18-time Argentine Open champion, hinted at the possibility of another season but admitted he has yet to make a decision about his future in the sport.
This remarkable victory solidifies La Natividad’s place at the pinnacle of polo, showcasing their resilience and exceptional teamwork on one of the sport’s grandest stages.