France have won their last two games against the All Blacks. Les Bleus offer strong value to continue their recent dominance in this matchup.
Historically, New Zealand (2.15) has had the better of most of their international rugby rivalries and the one with France (1.70) was no different. However, in the current era, the balance of power has shifted.
France have not only won their last two tests against the All Blacks – both in Saint-Denis – but done so comfortably. They beat New Zealand 40-25 in 2021 and 27-13 at the 2023 Rugby World Cup.
As the teams prepare to do battle again at the same location on Saturday, France are favourites to clinch another win.
All Blacks Injury Troubles
One factor that could sway the game in France’s favour is the fact that New Zealand are coming off the back of a titanic battle against Ireland (1.14). The All Blacks ultimately won that 23-13 but France had a much easier ride in their 52-12 win over Japan (151.10).
For Saturday’s fixture, New Zealand will be without flanker Sam Cane and winger Mark Tele’a. Both have been ruled out due to injury.
Cane is out due to a head injury picked up in the clash with Ireland, while Tele’a is dealing with an injury to his hand.
Tele’a scored two tries against France in the Rugby World Cup defeat last year.
The Antoine Dupont factor
Crucially, France has their key player back – star scrumhalf Antoine Dupont. He missed the Six Nations in order to prepare for the Olympics, but is now back in action for Les Bleus.
France finished second to Ireland at the Six Nations without Dupont. With him back in the team, they are probably the best team in the Northern Hemisphere.
France’s Steady Climb
France’s senior team’s recent success is indicative of a rugby system that has been working well from the bottom up. Their U20 national team has won three of the last four World Championships – triumphing in 2018, 2019 and 2023.
France lost the final to England in 2024, but the building blocks they laid before the pandemic are now bearing fruit with a dominant senior national team.
This is a golden opportunity for France to show that they can be one of the dominant forces of the next era of rugby. The Northern Hemisphere teams have struggled against Southern Hemisphere teams but current form suggests Les Bleus are strong enough to buck the trend and take advantage of their favourites tag on Easybet.
