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La Natividad–La Dolfina Rules the Field at Tortugas Open

More than just a game, the 85th Tortugas Open final was a modern revival of one of polo’s greatest rivalries — La Dolfina versus Ellerstina — reimagined for a new era.

Por: Alejandro Carrillo
La Natividad La Dolfina claimed a thrilling 12–11 victory over Ellerstina Indios Chapaleufú / Photo via Polo Line
La Natividad La Dolfina claimed a thrilling 12–11 victory over Ellerstina Indios Chapaleufú / Photo via Polo Line and @lanatividad.ladolfina

After an unavoidable delay caused by heavy rain, an epic showdown unfolded at the Tortugas Country Club on October 30, where La Natividad La Dolfina claimed a thrilling 12–11 victory over Ellerstina Indios Chapaleufú to secure their second title of the Triple Crown 2025. 

 

The 85th Tortugas Open final match served as a spectacular prelude to the 132nd Argentine Open in Palermo, which is set to begin in just a few days. More than just a game, this was a modern revival of one of polo’s greatest rivalries — La Dolfina versus Ellerstina — reimagined for a new era. 

The 85th Tortugas Open final match served as a spectacular prelude to the 132nd Argentine Open in Palermo, which is set to begin in just a few days / Photo via Polo Line
The 85th Tortugas Open final match served as a spectacular prelude to the 132nd Argentine Open in Palermo, which is set to begin in just a few days / Photo via Polo Line

Today’s La Natividad La Dolfina represents the powerful fusion of two polo dynasties from Cañuelas: the Cambiasos, father and son (Adolfo and Poroto), and the Castagnola brothers (Barto and Jeta).

 

Facing them stood an equally iconic squad — Ellerstina Indios Chapaleufú — led by brothers Gonzalito and Facundo Pieres, with Facundo making a much-anticipated return after his stint with La Natividad. They were joined by their cousins Cruz and Antonio Heguy, heirs to the legendary Pepe and Ruso Heguy. 

 

Together, the two teams brought a blend of heritage, experience, and youthful energy to the field, with three young stars — Poroto, Antonio, and Cruz — all chasing their first Tortugas Open title.

Victory by One Goal

The match began at a furious pace. Ellerstina Indios Chapaleufú appeared slightly stronger in the opening moments but failed to convert their opportunities. Midway through the first chukker, Barto Castagnola struck first, giving La Natividad La Dolfina an early 1–0 advantage. 

 

The second chukker was dominated by the Cañuelas powerhouse: Poroto Cambiaso found the posts twice, and Barto added another, pushing the score to 4–1 despite a goal from Gonzalito Pieres. Refusing to fold, Ellerstina fought back fiercely. 

After eight breathtaking chukkers, La Natividad La Dolfina emerged victorious, sealing a 12–11 win and capturing their second Triple Crown trophy of the year / Photo via Polo Line
After eight breathtaking chukkers, La Natividad La Dolfina emerged victorious, sealing a 12–11 win and capturing their second Triple Crown trophy of the year / Photo via Polo Line

By the third chukker, they had leveled the game at 4–4, and thanks to a precise 30-yard penalty conversion by Facundo Pieres, they entered halftime with a narrow 6–5 lead.

 

The second half evolved into a relentless tug of war. Each offensive surge from La Natividad La Dolfina was countered by an equally determined reply from Ellerstina Indios Chapaleufú. Neither side yielded ground, trading goals and defensive stands in a showcase of pure, high-octane polo. 

 

After two consecutive ties at 7–7 and 8–8, momentum began to tilt toward the green jerseys. Poroto Cambiaso and Jeta Castagnola found their rhythm, combining for three crucial goals to give their team an 11–9 cushion going into the final chukker — a fragile yet promising lead.

A Duel for History

As time wound down, Ellerstina launched an all-out offensive, while La Natividad tightened its defense to preserve the margin. With just two minutes remaining, Jeta Castagnola delivered what seemed to be the decisive blow, extending the lead to 12–9. But Ellerstina refused to concede. Antonio and Cruz Heguy struck twice in rapid succession, narrowing the gap to a single goal (11–12) and keeping the dream of extra time alive.

The final seconds were electric, but despite their desperate push, Ellerstina fell just short. After eight breathtaking chukkers, La Natividad La Dolfina emerged victorious, sealing a 12–11 win and capturing their second Triple Crown trophy of the year — and the first major title for young Poroto Cambiaso.

Key Information

  • Where did the 85th Tortugas Open final between La Natividad La Dolfina and Ellerstina Indios Chapaleufú take place? At the Tortugas Country Club.
  • What was the final score of the 85th Tortugas Open final match? La Natividad La Dolfina won 12–11.
  • Who were the standout players for La Natividad La Dolfina? Poroto Cambiaso and Jeta Castagnola led the charge with key goals.
  • What major event will follow this final? The 132nd Argentine Open Polo Championship in Palermo.

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