After the opening match of the last World Cup, French and New Zealanders meet this Saturday at the Stade de France. At a press conference, Scott Robertson returned to the threat that France and its captain Antoine Dupont could represent.
This Saturday at the Stade de FranceStar Wars will be on the field for this clash between France and New Zealand. And the danger is becoming more and more pressing for the Pacific warriors who have not beaten the French team for two matches. A challenge for the new New Zealand coach, Scott Robertson. Present at a press conference, the former Crusaders coach praised the qualities of the players coached by Fabien Galthié. “They have changed some of their game plan, but their strengths remain the same. This is a team that works on instinct. They found the balance between French flair and great discipline. And with their stars, they can punish you with their feet.” But one man draws all the eyes of his adversaries to him: Antoine Dupont. The coach, who passed through Perpignan as a player, is wary of the number nine at Stade Toulouse. “He's special, we're aware of his talent, we can't wait to play him.”
In many ways, this France/New Zealand embodies the peak of this autumnal interlude. But then, is the French XV ready or not ready to respond to the fire that the All Blacks are preparing to pour on it?
L’article -> https://t.co/e9OupNHJ5U pic.twitter.com/XRaWIJI0Ta— RUGBYRAMA (@RugbyramaFR) https://twitter.com/RugbyramaFR/status/1857684571959026041?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw
Many changes to the All Blacks
The New Zealanders will present themselves at the Stade de France with many changes in his starting XV. Up front, Codie Taylor returns to hooker after suffering concussion in the win over England.
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On the third line, it is the absence of Sam Cane which forces Scott Robertson to modify his composition. It is Ardie Savea who will take over the number 7 from the captain of the Blacks during the last World Cup. However, the future Moana Pasifika player has not started an international match as a flanker for three years. What does not scare his coach: “He played there for Kobe all season and he finished a few tests there for us. He will fit right in and Wallace Sititi will be in the third center line, his preferred position and it's a good little combo with Samipeni Finau. Circumstances led to that and it’s something we looked at this year.” Before adding: “You have to know how to play both positions if you want to be an All Black.”
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At the hinge, Cameron Roigard replaces Cortez Ratima, in difficulty during the last match. A reward for this nine who returns from a rupture of the cruciate ligaments. And who has the support of the former Perpignais: “He took the opportunity, we think it’s a game for him with his game management and his footing.” Beauden Barrett will also be placed at the opening in place of Damian McKenzie who sparkled against Ireland. The Chiefs number ten is preferred off the bench by his coach. And finally, Sevu Reece replaces the injured Mark Telea.
France
