Antoine, how did you experience this last training session in the snow?
“I think I was more considerate than the others. But the conditions will not be similar tomorrow, that is not what is announced in any case. We did what we could by being clean and concise. It will be much better tomorrow. »
Over the last two matches, we have seen you come out behind the rucks with forwards offering themselves, which leads to crossings quite a few times. Can you explain to us?
“It’s not something new. When I have several solutions, it's easier for me and less for the defense. We also adapted to the opposing system with a lot of fighting in the rucks and pressure on the outside so there were breaks on the edges. Afterwards, we have forwards who are powerful, intelligent in their runs and who know how to play on the ball. They can showcase their qualities when we have dynamic balls. »
What do you think of the performances of Louis Bielle-Biarrey, who has impressed since the start of the tour?
“He is a boy who has surprised us since he arrived in preparation for the World Cup where he won his place. Even during the Tournament, he scored a try alone in Scotland which turned the match around. Beyond his speed qualities, he is an intelligent player, who is technically gifted, who feels the game well and who anticipates good shots very well. When we give him a ball with space, he will know how to find the right solution whether it is with his foot or with his speed. It's a real asset to have a player with this top speed, especially when you have turnover balls. »
“It is not the system that adapts to the players but the opposite”
How do you adapt to changes in the team?
“It is not the system that adapts to the players but the opposite. This is a reality that has been verified since the start of Fabien Galthié's mandate. Whatever the compositions we had, the French team remained efficient with the same playing identity. This is extremely important to be able to build on the future. Even if we try to have stability, we sometimes have to endure ups and downs and the team adapts accordingly. »
Can we say that Argentina is the ideal team to knock you down after the All Blacks?
“Of course, it is a real threat that is coming, we are aware of it. Of course, we only had six days but we are used to playing with this format in the championship but it is mainly because of what they have been able to show over the last few months. It's a team that is capable of achieving very strong performances, which puts a lot of intensity into its game. I find that they have progressed in their offensive animation so it will be up to us to be present, serious and not wait for 15e or the 20e minute to get into our match because otherwise it will be complicated. »
“Winning all three matches on a tour is necessarily foundational for the future”
Is it very important to win on Friday to finish with three victories?
“It is very important to win this match, already because of what it represents since it is an opponent who is just behind us in the world ranking. And it's always important to be present at major events. Winning all three matches on a tour is necessarily foundational for the future. It gives confidence for the Tournament which will quickly arrive behind. We want to keep this dynamic of the last few weeks. »
