Je vous souhaite la Re-bienvenue Antoine Dupont. Le Stade aussi. Vous avez entendu les spectateurs?
Les Bleus were typically French, great under pressure and stress, they really came into their own firing in the second half. Speedy, unpredictable. My French contact wondered if the All Blacks would trample them but I never had a doubt in my mind we would win.
We got the first try which can be important. And we scored last too. When you grow up French and/or in the French culture, faut savoir gérer le stress. The All Blacks can become undisciplined. It's also French to seize opportunities. My Kiwi contact who will always back the All Blacks said they're consistent*, I think, as in they don't adapt.
Of course not only do les Bleus have arguably the best rugby player on Earth as their Captain but personally he has a lot of motivation: the Rugby World Cup 2023 was stolen from France and it was their time, this was his second game for his country since winning Gold representing France at the Olympics, so he's fresh, possibly impatient and his passion is replenished.
Historically, France's winning streak has been unbroken since 2018 against the All Blacks and this match was essentially a repeat of 8th September 2023 and the opening match of the Cup.
3 wins in a row for the All Blacks? Non non non. And to be honest, England and Ireland aren't even at the same table as the All Blacks. The All Blacks pulled up a chair for les Bleus, they sat down, both stretched out their hands and shook them and game on. I think, if you keep up to date with it, New Zealand now go down a spot in World rankings and France remain 4th.
I don't have to experience what the loss for France feels like. The All Blacks supporters have the rest of Sunday and the week to go through it.
Watching the anthems and especially the haka on YouTube after the match, the loss of one point difference must have really hurt the All Blacks.
Sure, New Zealand had to wear their alternate jersey but really? That design. You're not the All Whites, that's a different sport.
Go stick it the All Blacks.
-A.M.
* I may correct this later
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