Weekend Argus (Saturday Edition)
France ‘have to win’ opener against All Blacks, insists Dupont
PARIS: A week before the Rugby World Cup, with expectations rising in the squad and among the home fans, France captain Antoine Dupont warned the hosts “have to win” the opener against three-time champions New Zealand.
“This match is obviously extremely important, to get us started in the competition and to ensure that people follow our team and want to support them throughout the World Cup,” said Dupont.
“You obviously have to win a home opener.” In the build up, France have continued their strong form but the All Blacks slumped to a 35-7 thrashing at the hands of old rivals South Africa at Twickenham.
“They may have lost this match, but they had won 11 in a row just before, so I’m not worried for them,” Dupont said.
“They know this competition, they’ve won it the most times, and they’re always there when it counts, with plenty of quality and experience.”
France and New Zealand are the overwhelming favourites to advance from a group that also contains Italy, Uruguay and Namibia, but for both the opener is an early opportunity to lay down a marker.
Since Fabien Galthie took over as coach after the 2019 World Cup, France have developed an exciting side that combines the flair of old with a tighter, more disciplined style.
That approach took France to the Six Nations Grand Slam in 2022 and a world ranking of No 2 behind Ireland.
They have beaten all of the southern hemisphere sides over the past three years – including a 40-25 victory over the All Blacks in Paris in November 2021.
“We’ve never been so well-prepared,” said Dupont.
“We have won 80% of our matches, the Six Nations in 2022.
“We have a promising generation of talented players who have gained experience and continuity in the backbone of the team.
“That hasn’t been the case over the last 10 years. So all systems are go.
“What’s more, we’re lucky enough to be hosting the competition, so we’re hoping for public support.
“In spite of that, it’s still sport and matches have to be played and won.”