The Rugby World Cup gets under way early tomorrow morning Taiwan time, with France to take on three-time champions New Zealand at the Stade de France in what could be a dress rehearsal for the final at the same arena on Oct. 28.
When their names were drawn in the same group three years ago, the idea of using the fixture between them to start the competition was quickly made reality by organizers and tickets sold out in days.
Adding to the buzz around the game is the history between the countries at World Cups.
Photo: Reuters
The fact that New Zealand have won three titles and France have lost three finals tells its own story, but they have had some monumental clashes. The All Blacks clubbed France in the inaugural final in 1987, narrowly came out on top in the 2011 championship match and hammered them again in the quarter-finals in 2015.
However, in between France played breathtaking rugby to stun New Zealand in 1999 and 2007.
This weekend, captaining Les Bleus, unbeaten at home since February 2021, is star scrumhalf Antoine Dupont.
He has been a key part of France’s impressive performances in the past few years, but remains respectful about the All Blacks.
“They’re surely the greatest team to see playing. They have made generations dream,” Dupont said.
“Since the World Cup has existed, they are the team that has made their mark the most with extraordinary players and teams,” he said. “When I was younger, like a lot who are passionate about rugby, I admired the team, and their players.”
“All the conditions are in place for a great event,” the 26-year-old added.
Dupont’s side have beaten every team they have faced at least once since Fabien Galthie took over as head coach in December 2019.
Expectations surrounding the home side are high, with many believing they can beat New Zealand and eventually lift the Webb Ellis trophy for the first time.
“Obviously the closer we get, the more we feel the excitement, the enthusiasm, the fervor,” Dupont said. “The supporters, the media, social media, we see it everywhere. I don’t feel negative pressure in the team.”
“I hope we build up little by little, and unite as a 23 to get on the field on Friday,” he said.
France are to play without bulldozing center Jonathan Danty, with youngster Yoram Moefana deputizing in midfield.
New Zealand are also missing their first-choice No. 12, with the experienced Anton Lienert-Brown replacing the injured Jordie Barrett.
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