France delivered a commanding performance with an impressive 52-12 victory over Japan in their return to the Stade de France on Saturday. This match served as a strong preparation for their upcoming challenge against New Zealand.
The standout players of the match were Louis Bielle-Biarrey and Paul Boudehent, each scoring twice. Other tries came from Emilien Gailleton, Alexandre Roumat, Peato Mauvaka, and Jean-Baptiste Gros, while Thomas Ramos successfully converted six tries, marking France’s largest win against Japan in an official test match.
Japan struggled throughout, trailing 31-0 at halftime. In the second half, they managed to score two tries, one by Harumichi Tatekawa and another by Tevita Tatafu, with Naoto Saito converting one. Unfortunately, this defeat marked Japan’s sixth consecutive loss since Eddie Jones returned to coach the team late last year.
French coach Fabien Galthie welcomed back scrumhalf Antoine Dupont, who had been absent during the Six Nations to focus on preparing for the Paris Olympics with the Rugby Sevens team, where he earned a gold medal. Dupont’s presence significantly impacted the game, allowing France to dominate the field and showcase their skill.
The first half was largely one-sided, with France applying relentless pressure on Japan, reflecting the challenges that lie ahead for Jones in his quest to elevate Japan’s status in the rugby rankings. The young talent Theo Attissogbe made his debut after replacing the ill Damian Penaud.
France’s scoring began with Bielle-Biarrey’s try, which set the tone for the match. Follow-up tries displayed a well-coordinated team effort, highlighting the French squad’s dynamic and potent attack. After halftime, France continued to capitalize on Japanese weaknesses, even though Japan displayed some resilience with their tries.
As France prepares for their next match, this victory not only boosts their confidence but also illustrates the depth and versatility of their squad. The team looks poised to continue their momentum, which bodes well for their future encounters.
This match serves as a reminder of France’s potential in the lead-up to significant tournaments, instilling optimism in fans regarding their upcoming challenges.
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