A year after losing the World Cup quarterfinals against South Africa by the slightest difference, the ‘bleus’ had a small point difference in their favor this time. At the end of a peak of intensity, Fabien Galthié’s men managed to beat New Zealand on Saturday, November 16, at the Stade de France (30-29).
Until the end, the match had difficulty choosing its winner and, despite two attempts at the beginning of the second half, the blues had to face eye-catching visitors, determined to sign another prestigious victory after having knocked down blow after blow. England and Ireland. The Blues avoided the trap and continued their impeccable performance during this autumn tour before the final match against Argentina on Friday 22 November.
What to remember from France – New Zealand:
- The cador Luis Bielle-Biarrey
Already voted best player of the match against Japan, the Bordeaux winger once again offered a captain’s performance, almost making us forget that he is only 21 years old and has only 13 international caps. Of course, there is his try after a long run, which was probably the only one on the team that was able to score thanks to his speed. But Louis Bielle-Biarrey also impressed defensively and never let up, especially when the pace of the game increased.
For the third time in a row, the Blues managed to beat the All Blacks, each time at the Stade de France. The French XV has not lost against the New Zealanders since a match in 2018, in Dunedin, which was then 14thmy Consecutive victory of the blacks over the tricolors.
Player of the match Thomas Ramos, speaking to TF1: “No matter what era we play against the blacks, it is always a special game that can put you ahead. We had worked on a lot of things this week, especially these tight ends games. I’m proud of the group. »
- The turning point of the match. Returning from the locker room
Enterprising, the Blues seemed, however, a step below in the first act, which ended with a disbursement of seven points. But the time in the locker room apparently did the most good for Fabien Galthié’s men, who built their victory in a few minutes, with tries from Paul Boudehent (44my) and Louis Bielle-Biarrey (51my). After regaining the lead, Les Bleus will never be surpassed again.
Why be demanding? There was everything in this match: actions, tries, comebacks and even a victory for the blues, all in a stadium in full swing. This match, which was not at all friendly, fulfilled all its promises and deserves the highest marks!
